The Inspira STEAM project ends 7 years in Tarragona with 1,600 students involved
More than 1,600 students from Tarragona and its region have participated in the closing of the Inspira STEAM 2025-26 project. The program, now in its seventh year, aims to break gender stereotypes and encourage girls to take an interest in science.
Coordinated by the Rovira i Virgili University, this project has become a local reference to promote scientific and technological vocations among young people, especially girls.
The project and its protagonists in Tarragona
Who is behind Inspira STEAM?
The program is led at the national level by the University of Deusto, but in Tarragona its driving force is Carme Olivé, a professor in the Department of Computer Engineering and Mathematics at URV. She coordinates a project that includes the voluntary participation of mentors who are experts in STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics).
These professionals bring their experience to highlight the work of women scientists and break sexist barriers that still persist in these sectors.
The role of local schools and companies
During the closing day, schools such as Molí de Vent (Torredembarra), Mare de Déu del Carme (Tarragona), and ZER Benissanet-Miravet shared their experience with the project.
Additionally, companies from the region like Dow Chemical Ibérica, Essity, and Repsol, among others, were present as sponsors and contributed mentors, showing a business network committed to this change.
The final day and featured presentations
How was the project closing celebrated?
On June 9th, the closing day was a full recognition event. María Luz Guenaga, national coordinator, and Carme Olivé welcomed the attendees, which included representatives from companies and educational centers.
The presence of URV’s rector, Josep Pallarès, was the cherry on top of an event that also featured presentations from the participating centers, which enthusiastically explained how the project has impacted their students.
Which companies collaborated in this edition?
Besides the ones already mentioned, other Premium and Honor sponsors included companies such as Cargill, DuPont, Magnera, and Mars Snacking, as well as entities like the Tarragona Provincial Council and the City Council of Reus.
Mentors also joined from BASF, BOSTIK, CTAIMA, ICIQ, IRB Catsud, Inetum, IPHES, Technip, and Vencomatic Group, expanding the network of professionals involved in the region.
Impact and future of the Inspira STEAM project in the region
Why is it key for Tarragona?
The project not only fosters interest in scientific disciplines but also addresses a real problem: the low female presence in STEAM fields. This local initiative offers concrete and visible solutions, with an impact that has reached more than 1,600 students over seven years.
Moreover, the business and educational support demonstrates that Tarragona is betting on a more equal and innovative future.
How will Inspira STEAM continue evolving?
Although closing this edition, the Inspira STEAM project remains alive in the region. The goal is to maintain and expand participation, consolidate the network of mentors, and continue breaking stereotypes to make science a natural choice for everyone.
The commitment of URV and local companies is key to sustaining this momentum.
Meanwhile, Tarragona can already boast of having a program that goes beyond good intentions and places science within reach of the youngest, especially girls, who still have many questions to ask and answers to build.
Source of the article: Rovira i Virgili University
