On May 6 of this year, nine 3,000-euro scholarships were awarded to new chemistry, biology, and mathematics teachers. The recipients, who are part of the “There’s Chemistry Between Us!” program implemented by “Olpha”, "Centrālā laboratorija," and "Veselības centru apvienība," represented all of Latvia's regions.
This spring, nine young teachers received scholarships from “Olpha”, “Centrālā laboratorija”, and “Veselības centru apvienība”.
This year, the selection committee had a difficult task choosing the nine finalists because there were many strong applications. We are especially pleased with the young teachers who have chosen to work in regional schools while continuing their studies. They are passionate about their profession and often lead extracurricular activities in addition to their teaching duties, showing just how exciting math, chemistry, and biology can be. In the three years since the program began, we have accomplished a lot – 39 teachers have received scholarships totaling 117,000 euros. The program is growing, thanks to our partners who support young teachers through their work and contributions," emphasizes Dr. Juris Hmeļņickis, chairman of the board of "Olpha".
“Strong teachers are the foundation of a knowledgeable and healthy society. We are committed to supporting chemistry, biology, and mathematics teachers because these subjects provide the foundation not only for modern medicine, but also for society’s ability to make informed, science-based decisions about health and wellbeing. Seeing the enthusiasm, dedication, and determination of the teachers we support makes it clear that this investment provides an important boost at a crucial stage of their professional journey. By investing in young talent, we aim to help teachers establish themselves in the profession and inspire the next generation to become highly skilled professionals capable of developing the scientific and healthcare solutions of the future,” said Zane Kaktiņa, chairwoman of the board of “Centrālā laboratorija” and “Veselības centru apvienība”.
"There’s Chemistry Between Us!" is the largest private-sector support programme for young teachers in Latvia. Since its launch, excellence scholarships totalling €117,000 have been awarded to 39 young teachers. Applications are accepted twice a year, and this autumn scholarships will be awarded to six additional young chemistry, biology, and mathematics teachers.
About the Scholarship Programme "There’s Chemistry Between Us!" teacher support programme is one of the largest and most sustainable private-sector initiatives supporting young educators in Latvia. Under the programme, “Olpha” awards scholarships each year to five prospective or early-career chemistry teachers, “Centrālā laboratorija” supports biology teachers, while “Veselības centru apvienība” provides scholarships for mathematics teachers. The programme's total planned funding amounts to €180,000. It was established in 2023 at the initiative of the companies' owners and attorney-at-law Artūrs Spīgulis.
