Young chemistry, biology and math teachers can apply for €3,000 scholarships this autumn
The "There's Chemistry Between Us" program will award €3,000 scholarships to six young science and math teachers this autumn, with applications open from September 14 to October 2.
This autumn, six young teachers will receive scholarships of €3,000 each, bringing the total number of educators supported by the program since its launch to 44, with total funding reaching €132,000. The initiative is described as one of the largest private support programs for young teachers in Latvia.
Chemistry, biology and mathematics teachers who have worked at Latvian educational institutions for no more than five years are eligible to apply, as are education students who already teach one of the covered subjects. Applications will be judged on candidates' motivation, prior professional activity, involvement in school and community life, and their vision for engaging subject instruction. Applications open on September 14 and close October 2, with details available on the program's website.
Wider context in education
Organizers point to concerning trends in the sector. According to the OECD's TALIS 2024 survey on teaching and learning, only about a quarter of young teachers in Latvia say teaching was their first career choice, compared with more than half on average across OECD countries. The same research shows that teachers who feel their profession is respected by society are less likely to consider leaving within five years, regardless of pay or working conditions.
Meanwhile, OECD PISA data show declining student performance in Latvia: compared with 2015, average scores among 15-year-olds have dropped 51 points in reading, 23 points in mathematics and 17 points in science. In the 2025 study, 41% of Latvian students failed to reach the minimum reading proficiency level.
The scholarship program has been funded since 2023 by three companies, each supporting teachers of a different subject, with total planned funding of €180,000. One past recipient, a mathematics teacher at a rural school, said the money allowed her to renovate her family home and reinforced her decision to keep teaching outside the capital.
