European Space Agency’s Education Office, ESERO Latvia, to Launch in Latvia

ESERO is an ESA initiative designed to inspire greater interest in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) by bringing space into the classroom. Through a network spanning several European countries, ESERO works with educational institutions, science centres, teachers and other STEM education partners to make learning more engaging and relevant.

The launch event will bring together educators, education-sector representatives and other stakeholders to explore ESERO’s role and priorities in Latvia. Discussions will focus on the future of STEM education, the skills young people will need, and ways to inspire greater interest in science, technology and space.

Participants will also learn about educational opportunities and professional development activities available to teachers and students, as well as ESA education projects. More information and registration.

“The University of Latvia’s goal is to inspire and develop the next generation of leaders in science, technology and innovation. Through the ESERO Latvia programme, young people will have a unique opportunity to apply their knowledge in practice, gain insight into the research process and develop the skills needed to build today’s knowledge-based economy. By creating a link between schools, universities and future professional careers, we strengthen Latvia’s human capital and lay the foundations for new innovations that contribute to the sustainable development of society,” says Enno Ence, Vice-Rector for Development at the University of Latvia.

ESERO Latvia will focus on three key areas: professional development for educators, access to high-quality educational resources, and hands-on ESA education projects for children and young people aged 3 to 18.

The office will also help strengthen connections between schools, higher education institutions and the STEM sector through inspiration and career-focused activities organised across Latvia.

The initiative will begin with a study of the current state and needs of STEM education in Latvia. Its findings will inform the development of professional development programmes for teachers, the creation and adaptation of educational materials, and the development of inspiration and career activities for students.

A key benefit for Latvian educators will be access to resources developed by the wider European ESERO network and adapted specifically to the needs of Latvia’s education system. All educational materials developed by ESERO Latvia will be freely available to educators through the ESERO Latvia platform.

Based at the University of Latvia, ESERO Latvia will work closely with national education partners and the European ESERO network. Ventspils University of Applied Sciences and the Cēsis Space Education Centre will contribute their expertise and experience in space, technology and STEM education.

In the long term, ESERO Latvia aims to strengthen young people’s interest in STEM and help prepare the next generation for studies and careers in science, technology, engineering and other space-related fields.

About ESERO

The European Space Education Resource Office (ESERO) is an educational initiative of the European Space Agency that uses space to inspire students to explore STEM subjects and supports teachers in bringing these fields into the classroom. ESERO offices operate in several European countries, building national networks that connect organisations across the education, science and space sectors.

ESERO Latvia is a joint initiative of the University of Latvia, Ventspils University and the Cēsis Space Education Centre, implemented in cooperation with the European Space Agency.