K-TRIO

In 2006, Sofia University (K-TRIO coordinator) as EURAXESS bridgehead organisation involved the newly established Bulgarian network in the first Researchers Night. Since then, it organised 14 European Researchers Nights, and attracted several new partners from education, research and industry. The overall K-TRIO objective coincides with the goal of the MSCA & Citizens action: "to bring research and researchers closer to the public at large, to increase the awareness of research and innovation activities and to boost public recognition of science and research education", and “to show the role of researchers for science and economy, as well as the impact of researchers’ work on citizens’ daily lives”. The strategic long-term objectives are: fostering the interest of young talents to STEAM and research career, nurturing a new culture of creativity, scientific curiosity, innovative spirit and responsibility to environmental preservation, as well as enhancing the public readiness to engage in Citizens Science, Open Science and Open Innovation activities. The Consortium will pay due attention in all pre-events and 2022-23 ERNs on the importance of the ERA and EEA, and their synergy, for the European recovery, dual transformation and knowledge-based growth. The project will create greater understanding on EU policy, and how R&I contribute for well-being of people and sustainable development, and highlight the common European efforts for bridging global challenges, building Green Economy and Digital Single market, Smart Cities and Smart Factories, and take full advantage of Clean Technologies, Internet of Things (IoT), Artificial Intelligence, BIG Data and Cloud computing. The R&I role in resolving present COVID crises will be also highlighted. The already established networking with teachers, schools and STEM centres will become well-structured, and will integrate many researchers in mentoring of students or events in secondary schools and partners universities.