Connecting classrooms with fusion research: Commission welcomes school teachers from across Europe to ITER

60 secondary school teachers from across Europe visited the ITER site in Cadarache, France, to experience the forefront of fusion research.

Unlike many science outreach events that take place in conference rooms, this initiative gives teachers direct access to one of the most complex scientific infrastructures in the world, allowing them to explore key facilities at the ITER worksite and gain a closer look at the construction of the world’s largest experimental fusion reactor.

By engaging directly with the project’s scientists and engineers, the teachers were able to deepen their knowledge of fusion research and explore ways of explaining complex scientific concepts to their students. The experience will help them to develop educational activities and bring inspiring stories and resources back to their classrooms.

The teachers had the opportunity to learn not only about the physics and engineering behind fusion, but also to the role of the EU as host and the project’s largest contributor, providing over 45% of its funding. Since its launch in 2023, more than 320 teachers have taken part in this programme, from across the EU, reaching an estimated 11 800 students with information about fusion energy and the ITER project. 

This unique initiative aims to inspire and educate the next generation of scientists, engineers, and innovators, fostering a deeper understanding of fusion energy and its potential to shape the future of sustainable energy production.

Background

ITER (International Thermonuclear Experimental Reactor) is a large-scale experiment designed to prove the scientific and technical viability of fusion as a new energy source, and to take fusion energy from research to industrial use. 

The development of fusion energy is a challenging, yet potentially transformative, scientific pursuit. On its part, the EU is investing in a comprehensive approach, covering both pioneering research and education.

The teachers’ visits to ITER were organised by the European Commission’s Directorate-General for Energy (DG ENER). This is the 4^th such visit since the visitors’ programme launched in 2023.

Related links

• ITER - European Commission
• Fusion energy and ITER

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