CNR at the forefront of inclusive science education
Promoting interest in scientific disciplines, fostering inclusion, and reducing the gender gap in STEM: these are the core objectives of the project “STEM UP! – Science, Technology, Creativity,” funded in 2025 by the Intesa Sanpaolo Charitable Fund.
The initiative involves the National Research Council of Italy (CNR) through three of its institutes: the Institute of Applied Sciences and Intelligent Systems (ISASI), the National Institute of Optics (INO), and the Institute for Superconductors, Innovative Materials and Devices (SPIN), confirming its commitment to promoting scientific and technological culture among younger generations. The project is carried out in collaboration with the social promotion associations CTG Turmed (Naples) and Aries (Battipaglia) and involves five schools across the provinces of Naples and Salerno: ICS Ferdinando Russo (NA), Istituto Comprensivo Giovanni Falcone (NA), Istituto Comprensivo Palasciano (NA), Istituto Omnicomprensivo Parmenide (Roccadaspide, SA), and ICS Salvemini (Battipaglia, SA).
The project targets third-year students of lower secondary schools in Campania, with particular attention to socioeconomically disadvantaged contexts. Its goal is to strengthen STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) skills through an innovative, inclusive, and interdisciplinary approach.
Key actions include:
- ongoing educational support activities, also using virtual reality tools;
- scientific and creative laboratories;
- training pathways for teachers on the use of immersive technologies;
- digital educational support packages for disadvantaged students;
- digital literacy modules for families.
The CNR contribution
CNR’s involvement takes shape through science communication and career orientation activities, with a particular focus on light and electricity. Researchers guide students through hands-on experiences and in-depth sessions, aiming to stimulate curiosity, critical thinking, and awareness of opportunities offered by scientific careers. Special attention is also given to promoting female participation in STEM, helping to counter stereotypes and gender inequalities.
The program includes several initiatives, such as:
- thematic scientific seminars;
- experimental laboratories (optics, electricity, spectroscopy);
- a science playroom;
- outreach events, including the Science Festival in Pianura;
- awareness raising activities for the UNESCO’s International Day of Women and Girls in Science.
A particularly significant aspect is the production of accessible educational materials, such as a collection of replicable experiments designed to encourage active learning beyond the classroom.
People involved
CNR’s contribution is made possible thanks to the commitment of researchers from the three participating institutes, including Antigone Marino (ISASI), Simona De Luca (ISASI), Alessandra Rocco (INO), Maria Parisi (INO), Mario Barra (SPIN), and Gabriele Campogliano (SPIN).
“STEM UP!” represents a virtuous example of collaboration among research institutions, schools, and the third sector, combining educational innovation with social inclusion. The project contributes to building a more equitable and accessible educational ecosystem, where science becomes a tool for both personal and collective growth.
Special thanks go to the Intesa Sanpaolo Charitable Fund for supporting an initiative that concretely invests in the future of younger generations.