Highlights from the 23rd National Science and Technology Week 2026 Showcase Innovation and Youth Talent

The 23rd National Science and Technology Week (SNCT) is underway across Brazil, featuring a rich schedule of 185 activities including exhibitions, workshops, and panel discussions. Officially opened on October 27 at Fiocruz’s Manguinhos campus in Rio de Janeiro, the event is organized by Fiocruz with support from Fiotec. Fiotec’s Executive Director Cristiane Sendim underscored the organization's dedication to democratizing science and improving public health through these initiatives. The opening included the "Ciência delas" panel, emphasizing women in science, and an award ceremony for the 4th Portinho Livre Infantojuvenile Literature Contest, with the winning work by 16-year-old Jennifer Yorrahra da Silva França.

In Nova Friburgo, the Feira Intercolegial de Ciências highlighted five student projects addressing themes like sustainability, health, and violence prevention. The top prize went to the 'Keyhole Garden' project from Colégio Estadual Agrícola Rei Alberto I, which won R$ 2,000, followed by R$ 1,500 for second place and R$ 1,000 for third, with awards shared between students and their teachers. These initiatives, supported by the municipal science council, encourage youth research and social solutions.

Additionally, the Feira de Ciência, Pesquisas e Tecnologia showcased innovations in entrepreneurship related to science and technology, emphasizing the fusion of research and enterprise to advance the Brazilian innovation landscape. The SNCT continues through November 1 with various state-level events fostering science education and innovation.