A study on the transformation of butts into eyeglasses, a bracelet that warns parents when their children go into the water, an ecopoint to divide the garbage “by itself”, or an anti-acne cream based on shrimp waste are some of the projects selected to participate in the largest science exhibition in Portugal. Organized by the Youth Foundation, the National Science Exhibition is free of charge and takes place on the 1st, 2nd and 3rd of June, at Alfândega do Porto.
Participating are 69 scientific projects, by more than 150 young scientists, coming from north to south, including the islands, but also from other countries, such as Brazil, Italy or Mozambique. Over the last year, they have been developing, inside and outside the classroom, real “scientific projects” in the areas of chemistry, biology, earth sciences, engineering, but also social and economic sciences.
Participating projects were selected from the National Contest of Young Scientists, organized by the Youth Foundation for over 30 years. During the National Science Exhibition, the projects are evaluated by a jury of specialists, coordinated by Ciência Viva. The best compete for more than 4,000 euros in monetary prizes and the possibility of representing Portugal in the biggest science competitions in the world.
“The National Science Show is a platform where innovation, creativity and scientific research intersect. From innovative investigations in the areas of biology, physics and chemistry, to brilliant technological solutions, the projects presented are brilliant examples of the emerging scientific talent in Portugal. It is our role to stimulate, from an early age, a taste for and interest in science. Together and thanks to the work of the various institutions involved and the teachers of all schools, we are contributing to a future with more knowledge, driven by a passion for science and the power of ideas”, comments Carla Mouro, Executive President of the Youth Foundation.
Alongside the project display, the event features conferences, workshops and training activities for teachers. Young people thus have the opportunity to contact nationally and internationally renowned scientists, develop skills to present scientific projects and create partnerships with other colleagues.
The National Science Exhibition is open to the public on Thursday, June 1st, between 2:30 pm and 6:00 pm and on Friday, June 2nd and Saturday, June 3rd, between 10:00 am and 6:00 pm.
