Nayra Rodríguez Eugenio – Navigating the Sea of Apathy: Charting a Course for STEM Engagement in the Canary Islands

The Canary Islands, home to some of the world’s most prestigious astronomical observatories, stand as a beacon of scientific excellence. Yet, a challenging current prevails: a concerning lack of interest in STEM fields among local youth. In these turbulent times, where societal engagement with science is crucial, this disconnect poses a significant threat to the sustainability of these vital research hubs and the future of scientific literacy in the region.

This keynote will explore our strategic efforts to navigate this ‘sea of apathy’ and raise the ‘sails’ of STEM enthusiasm. We are embarking on a journey to transform perceptions, shifting the narrative from distant, abstract science to a tangible, inspiring reality. Our approach is anchored in three key strategies: 1) humanizing science by showcasing the diverse individuals behind the research, breaking down stereotypes and fostering relatable profesional role models; 2) delivering hands-on, engaging science experiences that ignite curiosity and passion; and 3) equipping educators with the resources and support needed to cultivate a vibrant STEM learning environment.

In a world facing complex challenges, ensuring public engagement with science is not merely a destination, but a continuous voyage. We will share our evaluation results and discuss the obstacles we have encountered, highlighting the lessons learned as we strive to chart a new course for science engagement in the Canary Islands, ensuring that the region’s extraordinary astronomical heritage remains a source of pride and inspiration for generations to come.

Nayra was born and grew up in Tenerife in the Canary Islands and studied physics at the University of La Laguna where she also gained her Masters in Astrophysics., before completing her doctoral thesis at the Instituto Astrofísico de Canarias and University of La Laguna studying distant galaxies and how they change.  Nayra has a long-standing passion for public outreach and engagement, actively participating in science communication and education projects at the IAC including coordinating the PETeR (robotic telescopes) project which empowers Spanish students to do their own research using professional telescopes. Nayra leads ‘Talk to Them’ – pioneering the profile and role of women in astronomy and is also joint director of the international teacher training course ‘Astronomy Adventure in the Canary Islands’.