COMMUNITY FOUNDATION - STIINTESCU PROGRAM-CHEMISTRY IN ACTION
The Științescu program is a national initiative that reimagines science education by making chemistry hands-on, creative, and relevant to everyday life. With support from the A. R. Foundation, two local Community Foundations—Mureș and Galați (for the Constanța region), implemented the program in their counties to help students and teachers rediscover the power of science through real-world exploration.
Designed to promote innovation, critical thinking, and a love for STEM subjects, Științescu supports school communities in developing engaging educational projects that highlight chemistry’s role in public health, food safety, and environmental sustainability. At its core, the program aims to make science accessible by bridging school curricula with practical experience and local relevance.
In Mureș County, the focus was on immersive learning experiences such as chemistry workshops, teacher trainings, and student visits to industrial sites like the Azomureș chemical plant, where students witnessed chemistry in action. Eight school projects received funding, and the program culminated in a celebratory showcase that brought together students, teachers, and the wider community.
In Constanța County, the program emphasized inclusion, especially for children from disadvantaged backgrounds. Following a community-mapping process, four school projects were selected through an open call. These projects were complemented by a vibrant Științescu Festival, where over 500 children participated in interactive science exhibits and STEAM activities that promoted teamwork, creativity, and curiosity.
By connecting formal education with hands-on learning and community engagement, the Științescu program inspires students to view chemistry not just as a school subject, but as a dynamic tool for understanding and shaping the world.
The A. R. Foundation supports these efforts for their innovative approach to education, their commitment to equity, and their success in sparking lasting interest in science among children and teachers across Romania.
