For the fourth year in a row, World Quantum Day is being celebrated in Latvia. This year, for the first time, activities took place outside of Riga – in Preiļi. Scientists from the University of Latvia (UL) traveled to the Latgale town to share their knowledge and career journeys, as well as to engage in discussions with students not only about quantum technologies but also about stereotypes in science.
What is quantum physics, how is it applied today, and what are the major achievements of Latvian professors – these are just a few of the questions that UL professors introduced to the students of Preiļi Primary School No. 1.
UL tenured professor of physics Vjačeslavs Kaščejevs explained: "What is the global level of knowledge, how can Latvians influence it, what makes us sought after in the world, and what diverse opportunities become available to Latvian students."
Quantum technologies have become one of the fastest-growing fields in science and technology worldwide. The visit by UL professors to Preiļi Primary School No. 1 was initiated by alumni who have connected their lives with quantum science. In addition to discussions, students participated in various hands-on activities.
Kaščejevs expressed: "We brought a kind of laboratory game where you can immerse yourself in the role of a quantum and practically try out the principle of quantum communication, which is one of the applications of quantum technology."
The tenured professors emphasized that many talented scientists come from regions, which is why organizing such events is important not only in Riga but also elsewhere in Latvia.
UL tenured professor of computer science Andris Ambainis noted: "The biggest scientific discoveries are often made by university students. They are made by relatively young scientists, and the number of young people interested in science determines how many new scientists we will have in five or ten years."
Although World Quantum Day is officially on April 14, events usually take place throughout the entire month.
