ERN14-15SVK · Festival of Science European Researchers' Night 2014 - 2015 in Slovakia

Festival of Science European Researchers' Night 2014 - 2015 in Slovakia

The European Researchers’ Night in Slovakia, ERN 14 -15 SVK, relied on a strong awareness campaign, based on the concepts that “science is adventure” and “sicencie is the future of Slovakia”; such campaign addressed the large public with a specific focus on students, aiming at attracting them towards scientific studies and careers. Top Slovak researchers explained the way science influences citizens’ daily life, how research outcomes help to solve emerging problems and increase quality of life. The second strog pillar of the project consisted of a close cooperation with the research community: a wide range of activities, including large science shows, presentations, lectures and discussions in shopping malls, museums, cafes and observatories, were organized, covering all country´s territory (Banska Bystrica, Kosice, Zilina, Tatranska Lomnica). The main event was held in Bratislava in the Old Market Hall, V-club in the City House of Art; various science installations and stands were spread through the close City centre, and the various venues were linked through live streaming. As for the activities offered, they ranged from presentations and lectures, to test scientific applications, latest research outcomes, debates with researchers. The direct exchanges with researchers allowed the attendees to better remember inspiring stories and successes of Slovak researchers, which enhanced their public recognition and increased the public awareness about the positive impact of their work. The third strength of the project consisted in a flexible management structure, also based on the experience accumulated during the past years of successful Slovak Researchers’ Night events, ruled by a consortium agreement concluded amongst the partners and cooperating bodies before the real launch of the activities. In 2015 we launched the pilot version of Scientific board which was in charge of selection process for the planned scientific discussions, specification of the themes as well as appointment of discussants - top Slovak scientists, experts for each theme. Scientific board also processed post event survey and feedback from scientists The event certainly contributed tackling the remaining stereotypes about researchers and science and increasing the awareness of research and innovation activities, through an improved understanding of the impact of researchers' work on our daily life, while it also encouraged young people to embark on scientific careers. Personal visit of Mr. Prezident Andrej Kiska, at the event in Poprad in 2015, was also great message for young people. Mr. President highly esteems the science and expressed the strong belief that the future of our country is in the hands of skilled and well-educated people among whom the scientists belong to.

Data: CORDIS, © European Union