As the academic year comes to an end, so does our most established science outreach initiative: the Escola i Ciència program. Once again, VHIO has opened its doors to schools to share, in an accessible and engaging way, how we conduct cancer research, and to give students the opportunity to explore our facilities and meet our professionals.
Throughout the school year, we welcomed 14 educational centres, ranging from 6th grade primary school groups to university students, including high school and giher level vocational training. In total, more than 500 students took part in the activities, reflecting the growing interest in science and research among schools and young learners.
A program adapted to each educational stage
Schools participating in Escola i Ciència enjoy a learning experience adapted to the age and level of their students.
In general, the visits include science talks led by VHIO professionals, guided tours of our facilities, and scientific workshops using real lab materials, such as microscopes and cell culture plates.
However, we also adaptthe content, language and activities to the specific needs and interests of each age level. For younger students —from 6th grade or 1st year of secondary school— the sessions become interactive games and activities designed to spark scientific curiosity. For older students —in high school, vocational training or university— the focus shifts to more specialized topics and professional guidance, including lab tours, exploring real equipment and open conversations about their questions, aspirations and real-life role models in science.
A program made possible by VHIO’s team
This year, over 30 VHIO professionals made Escola i Ciència possible: from predoctoral and postdoctoral researchers to group leaders, as well as technical, clinical and science communication staff. Their involvement is key to the success of the program.
This direct contact with people who work every day to advance cancer research is one of the fundamental pillars of the Program. More than presenting what we do, we try to create meaningful spaces for dialogue, where students can ask questions, explore their concerns and discover diverse and real role models who may inspire them to pursue a future in science.
Sharing science with society
As a Severo Ochoa Center of Excellence, VHIO is firmly committed to making scientific knowledge accessible to society. This commitment takes shape through an active science outreach program that includes initiatives such as Escola i Ciència, the Open Day, and the VHIO Talks lecture series, among others. All these activities share a common goal: to bring science closer to the public, awaken scientific vocations and involve society in the value of cancer research.
As the school year finishes, we say goodbye to another edition of Escola i Ciència with the satisfaction of having sparked new questions and scientific ambitions, and with the commitment to continue sharing science and bringing research into the classroom next school year.
