Iquique, Chile – Hundreds of students from across the Tarapacá region gathered at the El Teatro Municipal de Iquique this week for the inaugural Tarapacá Science Summit 2025. The event, which took place November 26-28, aimed too ignite a passion for science, technology, engineering, and mathematics among local youth through accessible presentations and direct engagement with leading researchers. Featuring 1999 National prize for Exact Sciences laureate Dr. José maza, the summit underscored a regional commitment to bolstering STEM education and fostering scientific vocations within the community.
- Hundreds of students from Iquique, Alto Hospicio, and Pozo Almonte attended the Tarapacá Science Summit 2025 at the El Teatro Municipal de Iquique, an event highlighted by the participation of renowned astronomer and 1999 National Prize for Exact Sciences laureate Dr. José Maza, alongside leading local researchers from the Universidad Arturo Prat and Universidad de Tarapacá, Iquique campus.
The summit successfully combined national outreach with regional scientific perspectives, delivering clear, accessible content closely tied to local context and education. As interest in STEM fields continues to grow globally, initiatives like this are crucial for inspiring the next generation of scientists and innovators.
Organized by the Seremi of Science, Technology, Knowledge and Innovation, in collaboration with the Explora Program and with support from the Tarapacá Regional Ministry of Education, the Iquique Municipality, the Department of Culture, Cormudespa, and the Tarapacá Regional Government’s Education Commission, the event transformed the historic theater into a hub for learning and discussion. This underscored the region’s commitment to bringing science to local schools and fostering new vocations within Tarapacá.
Dr. José Maza, the celebrated astronomer and National Prize winner, was the central figure of the summit. He captivated the audience with his ability to explain complex scientific concepts in a simple and engaging manner. His presentation, “The Moon,” explored the history, formation, and unique characteristics of Earth’s natural satellite, encouraging students to observe the night sky with curiosity and to ask questions that drive discovery. He also dedicated time to answering questions from the young audience, emphasizing that “science is not a privilege of a few, but an open invitation to anyone who wants to understand the world.”
Dr. Maza’s presence was highly valued by both educators and officials, who praised the impact of his outreach work nationwide. His approachable style fostered a direct dialogue with one of Chile’s most influential astronomers, making it a particularly memorable moment for attendees.
The summit also showcased local scientific talent through the participation of three distinguished researchers from the region. Dr. Pablo González, from the Universidad de Tarapacá and advisor to the Explora Program, explored the relationship between astronomy and the local landscape by presenting archaeoastronomy as a tool for understanding the cultural identity of northern Chile.
Drs. Patricio Salgado and José Díaz, from the Universidad Arturo Prat, offered complementary perspectives from the field of theoretical physics. Salgado prompted reflection on the strategic role of science in social development, reinforcing the idea that “without science there is no progress” and that investment in knowledge is essential for creating opportunities and reducing inequalities. Díaz, meanwhile, took the audience on a conceptual journey to the extreme phenomena of the universe, clearly explaining the processes of stellar collapse and the geometry of spacetime, demonstrating that advanced physics can be understood and enjoyed by young audiences when communicated with passion and clarity.
Ronald Yavar, the Seremi of Science for Tarapacá, highlighted the strong turnout and the commitment demonstrated by the school community. He stated that “events like this show the enormous scientific potential present in Tarapacá and the genuine interest of our young people in discovering, learning, and projecting themselves into the world of science.” The Tarapacá Science Summit 2025 solidified its position as a key regional event, strengthening the connection between research, education, and the local community.
