Project description
Connecting society and science across regions
Public understanding of science and access to research engagement opportunities remain uneven, with regional, social and gender disparities limiting inclusive participation in science across Europe. Supported by the Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions programme, the WAAITT project aims to expand science outreach in the Czech Republic by organising large-scale events such as the European Researchers’ Night as well as interactive workshops and cultural programmes. It will also organise initiatives bringing researchers to schools in collaboration with educational institutions. To reduce regional inequalities, it will introduce mini Researchers’ Nights in remote areas and promote gender equality in STEM. The overall goal is to make science more accessible, inclusive and visible.
Objective
The WAAITT project (2025–2027) builds on the proven success of the METAMORPHOSIS project, which established a strong foundation for systematic science outreach across the Czech Republic. WAAITT enhances and expands these efforts by introducing an integrated portfolio of activities that foster meaningful interaction between researchers and society, with a strong focus on inclusivity, regional accessibility, gender equality, and promotion of EU-funded research. Its flagship event, the European Researchers’ Night, will engage over 120,000 annual visitors through interactive programmes, workshops, and cultural activities, demystifying science and strengthening public trust in research. Complementary actions such as “Researchers to Schools” provide structured engagement with primary and secondary education, supported by a new national online platform and collaboration with the National Pedagogical Institute. To address regional disparities, mini Researchers’ Nights will connect remote areas with research institutions, offering pupils first-hand scientific experiences and reducing geographical inequalities. Gender balance in STEM and non-STEM fields is addressed through awareness-raising events that challenge stereotypes and empower career choice regardless of gender. The project also strengthens the community of science communicators by organising dedicated conferences and training events, promoting science communication as an integral part of research careers. Throughout all activities, EU research funding and international collaboration will be prominently highlighted, increasing public understanding of European support for innovation. A comprehensive monitoring and feedback system will ensure effectiveness, scalability, and long-term impact. By connecting people, institutions, and regions through science, WAAITT advances the ambitions of Horizon Europe in building an open, responsible, and curiosity-driven society.
Programme(s)
Multi-annual funding programmes that define the EU’s priorities for research and innovation.
Multi-annual funding programmes that define the EU’s priorities for research and innovation.
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HORIZON.1.2 - Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions (MSCA)
MAIN PROGRAMME
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Topic(s)
Calls for proposals are divided into topics. A topic defines a specific subject or area for which applicants can submit proposals. The description of a topic comprises its specific scope and the expected impact of the funded project.
Calls for proposals are divided into topics. A topic defines a specific subject or area for which applicants can submit proposals. The description of a topic comprises its specific scope and the expected impact of the funded project.
Funding Scheme
Funding scheme (or “Type of Action”) inside a programme with common features. It specifies: the scope of what is funded; the reimbursement rate; specific evaluation criteria to qualify for funding; and the use of simplified forms of costs like lump sums.
Funding scheme (or “Type of Action”) inside a programme with common features. It specifies: the scope of what is funded; the reimbursement rate; specific evaluation criteria to qualify for funding; and the use of simplified forms of costs like lump sums.
HORIZON-CSA - HORIZON Coordination and Support Actions
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Call for proposal
Procedure for inviting applicants to submit project proposals, with the aim of receiving EU funding.
Procedure for inviting applicants to submit project proposals, with the aim of receiving EU funding.
(opens in new window) HORIZON-MSCA-2025-CITIZENS-01
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Net EU financial contribution. The sum of money that the participant receives, deducted by the EU contribution to its linked third party. It considers the distribution of the EU financial contribution between direct beneficiaries of the project and other types of participants, like third-party participants.
166 28 PRAHA
Czechia
The total costs incurred by this organisation to participate in the project, including direct and indirect costs. This amount is a subset of the overall project budget.