Young teachers are invited to apply for a €3,000 scholarship in the program “There Is Chemistry Between Us!”

Data compiled by the European Commission shows that in Latvia, the proportion of graduates in mathematics, natural sciences, and engineering (STEM) is 21%, which is below the OECD average of 26%. This also indicates that the number of new teachers in mathematics, biology, and chemistry is limited, while there is still a shortage of teachers in these subjects nationwide. Moreover, more than 12% of teachers in Latvia (over 14% in Riga) are over the age of 65. This highlights the need for targeted support programs to help attract new, talented, and motivated specialists to the education sector.

By implementing the program “There Is Chemistry Between Us!”, Latvian pharmaceutical manufacturer AS “Olpha”, SIA “Centrālā laboratorija”, and AS “Veselības centru apvienība” provide substantial financial support to young teachers, while also emphasizing the important role of the teaching profession and its value in society.

“The shortage of teachers in Latvia remains a pressing challenge for our society. The arrival of a new, motivated generation into the education system is vitally important for us as a society. It is essential that schools have teachers who possess knowledge, enthusiasm, and the ability to help students see the meaning of learning, its connection to real life, and find the right motivation to study chemistry, biology, and mathematics. As a local Latvian manufacturer, we are ready to contribute to improving the overall well-being of Latvia. Without enthusiastic and knowledgeable teachers, this is not possible. However, this support program is not only about financial assistance but also serves as a message to society that teachers are the foundation of an educated and prosperous country,” emphasizes Dr. chem. Juris Hmeļņickis, Chairman of the Board of AS “Olpha”.

Since the spring of 2023, 30 young or prospective teachers of natural sciences and mathematics have already received support through this initiative, and this spring nine more will join them.

“In order for our society to be healthy and for healthcare to be of high quality and accessible to everyone, the study of exact sciences already at the school level is crucial. Mathematics, chemistry, and biology form the foundation for understanding human health, prevention, and the development of modern medical science. Teachers play a special role here, as they pass on this knowledge professionally, creatively, and with passion to their students. We support young teachers as the future builders of our society and healthcare system,” emphasizes Iveta Lāce, Chairwoman of the Board of AS “Veselības centru apvienība”.