2026 National Science and Technology Week Highlights Women's Contributions Across Brazil

The 23rd National Science and Technology Week (SNCT) in Brazil, held from October 26 to 30, 2026, prominently featured the theme 'Ciência Delas' to emphasize women's vital roles and contributions in science and technology. Activities and events were held nationwide to empower and inspire women and girls to pursue scientific careers.

In São José dos Campos, the National Institute for Space Research (INPE) hosted several free events until November 2. Highlights included a discussion titled "Women, Science, and Space" with INPE scientists Andreia Sorice, Fátima Mattiello, and Tânia Dominici, who shared their professional journeys and explored their impact on Brazilian space research. An exhibition showcased women's contributions to INPE’s history, while a hands-on workshop on lightning physics was conducted by INPE’s Lightning Physics Research Group.

The Laboratório Interinstitucional de e-Astronomia (LIneA) also promoted conversations with female scientists such as Mariana Penna-Lima and Rita de Cassia dos Anjos. Mariana shared her path in cosmology, stressing the importance of fundamental research, while Rita discussed inclusivity in science and insights into high-energy physics, including recent Nobel discoveries. Their interviews were made available on LIneA’s social media platforms to broaden public access.

In Salvador, Bahia, the SNCT concluded with robotics workshops, digital game creation, rocket-building activities, and immersive augmented reality experiences aimed at engaging girls and women in STEM. Conversations addressed the challenges women face in exact sciences and technology. The 'Mais Ciência nas Escolas' program supports 92 educational units in Bahia with scientific tools such as telescopes and 3D printers.

Meanwhile, São Lourenço da Mata’s Escola Técnica Estadual Governador Eduardo Campos held the I Simpósio Edwiges de Sá Pereira on October 29. This symposium included workshops on natural cosmetics, 3D printing, programming, and financial planning, all geared toward female empowerment in science. The event honors educator and feminist Edwiges de Sá Pereira and seeks to encourage diversity and inclusion in scientific fields.

Together, these coordinated efforts across Brazil during SNCT 2026 spotlighted women’s pivotal scientific contributions, fostered female role models, and aimed to dismantle barriers to women's full participation in science and technology fields.