Paraná Faz Ciência 2026 Highlights Women in Science and Innovation in Cascavel

The sixth edition of Paraná Faz Ciência commenced on October 9, 2026, at the Universidade Estadual do Oeste do Paraná (Unioeste) in Cascavel, under the theme "Girls and Women in Science: Breaking Barriers." This thematic focus aligns with the 23rd National Science and Technology Week's motto, "Their Science," emphasizing the critical role of female scientific contributions in Paraná and Brazil. The event, recognized as Brazil's largest science engagement initiative, drew thousands of participants, including researchers, university representatives, and local government officials.

The opening ceremony at Teatro Municipal Sefrin Filho featured cultural highlights from the Orquestra Sinfônica de Cascavel and welcomed attendees with remarks from Cascavel's mayor Renato Silva, who underscored science's role in societal development. Unioeste’s rector, Alexandre Almeida Webber, highlighted the importance of showcasing women’s achievements in science, while the reitora of the Universidade Estadual de Maringá (UEM), Gisele Mendes de Carvalho, stressed the need to value women’s roles as students, professors, and researchers.

Statewide participation was notable, with Seti and Fundação Araucária organizing a comprehensive week of exhibitions, seminars, and laboratory tours designed to popularize science and foster community engagement. Fernando Saraiva from the Ministry of Science, Technology, and Innovation (MCTI) announced a R$ 15 million funding call to support knowledge dissemination projects. Luiz Márcio Spinosa from Fundação Araucária reported a near tenfold increase in the agency’s budget over six years and highlighted Paraná’s second-place ranking in the National Competitiveness Index. Secretary Aldo Nelson Bona emphasized efforts to demystify science and promote public accessibility to scientific work.

The Universidade Estadual de Londrina (UEL) also made a significant impact by presenting 11 interactive and engaging projects during the November 9-13 event. Over 100 students and teachers participated in showcasing experiments and innovative research. UEL notably stands out as the sole state university with three finalist projects in the Prime 2026 program, each receiving R$ 200,000 for market introduction. These projects address biological pest control, pediatric urinary incontinence treatment, and an innovative wound care gel, highlighting UEL’s strong commitment to impactful innovation and public engagement.

With strong institutional support and a clear focus on elevating women's contributions to science, Paraná Faz Ciência 2026 continues to strengthen Paraná’s position within Brazil’s scientific community while fostering inclusivity and public interest in science and technology.