Inspiring and nurturing interest in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) is essential to foster the next generation of scientists and innovators.
To celebrate World Science Day for Peace and Development, the NEA, in co-operation with the NEA Chapter of Women in Nuclear (WiN), co-organised an educational outreach event at Ecole Internationale Bilingue (EIB) de la Jonchère near Paris on 8 November 2024. The event brought together approximately 100 students aged 11 to 14 for activities designed to spark their interest in careers in STEM.
The WiN NEA Chapter, part of the global WiN network, promotes gender balance in the nuclear energy sector by establishing and maintaining a network for women working at the OECD and enabling them to exchange knowledge and experience to advance their roles in the nuclear field. Through events, workshops, and school visits, the chapter also provides a platform for NEA staff to engage with young people and to serve as role models, particularly for young girls, inspiring them to pursue studies and careers in science and technology.
During the event, seven NEA staff shared their personal stories and reflected on what they were like as children, their school experiences, and their professional journeys. Participants also heard about the benefits and excitement of careers in STEM and how choosing these fields can contribute to addressing global challenges.
NEA staff delivered a presentation on nuclear energy, covering fundamental concepts and its potential to contribute to climate change mitigation as a low-carbon energy source. The students showed enthusiasm and curiosity, engaging in discussions and asking questions that showcased their environmental awareness.
NEA staff at the Ecole Internationale Bilingue (EIB) de la Jonchère.
Interactive breakout sessions featured six guided activities led by NEA staff. Covering such diverse topics as chemistry, geology, space exploration, coding, energy system design, and technology and public trust these activities provided an opportunity for students to apply scientific principles in practical contexts, deepening their understanding of the sciences and nuclear energy while bridging the gap between theory and practice.
The event concluded with an open discussion, allowing students to ask questions and receive advice from NEA staff, who emphasised the importance of curiosity, resilience, and continuous learning.
Through sharing their journeys and expertise, the WiN members from the NEA chapter hoped to inspire students to pursue their dreams and to see themselves as future innovators capable of making a positive impact on the world, especially by contributing to important and exciting challenges in STEM.
The event was aligned with Plan 2035, a new initiative to assist NEA member countries in building the diverse, inclusive and gender-balanced workforce necessary to fulfil their nuclear technology policies. Officially launched at the Roadmaps to New Nuclear 2024 conference in September, its activities include reaching secondary school students, fostering early interest in STEM and nuclear science to inspire future innovators.
