Engaging classrooms

Science thrives on curiosity. It is the relentless pursuit of the unknown, the drive to explore, and the excitement of discovery that have propelled humanity forward. Yet, for many students -- especially those from underrepresented backgrounds -- STEM education can often feel out of reach, abstract, or disconnected from real-world impact.

This is where TimePix comes in as a revolutionary tool that is transforming classrooms around the world by making invisible radiation visible, turning abstract scientific concepts into hands-on experiences, and empowering students to engage with cutting-edge technology used in space exploration, medical imaging and fundamental physics research.

With the TIMEPIX@school initiative, over 20,000 students worldwide are getting the chance to conduct meaningful experiments, fostering confidence, curiosity and a deeper connection with science. This is more than just education; it’s an opportunity to inspire the next generation of scientists, engineers, and innovators.

The world is facing an urgent challenge: by 2030, there will be a global shortage of over 85 million skilled workers, particularly in technology and engineering (World Economic Forum). One reason for this is the lack of access to high-quality STEM education, particularly in underserved communities. Many students struggle to see the practical applications of what they learn in the classroom. TimePix solves this problem by bringing real-world scientific tools into schools, allowing students to conduct hands-on experiments with the same advanced technology used at CERN (the European Organization for Nuclear Research, a world-leading scientific institution dedicated to exploring the fundamental structure of the universe through cutting-edge particle physics research and technological innovation), in hospitals, on the International Space Station and in cultural heritage research.

For numerous high school students, particularly those from underprivileged or underrepresented backgrounds, recognising the importance of STEM education can be challenging. This initiative equips them with state-of-the-art technology -- identical to the devices utilised in space, medical facilities and museums -- bringing hands-on scientific exploration directly into their classrooms. By democratising access to high-level scientific tools, TimePix helps students visualise complex physics concepts, design their own experiments and engage with science in a way that textbooks alone simply cannot achieve.

Radiation surrounds us, emitted by cosmic rays, natural elements and even everyday objects, yet its invisibility makes it challenging to comprehend its significance or interactions with matter. TimePix transforms this understanding by detecting and visualising radiation in real time, enabling students to observe cosmic rays, X-rays, and other forms of energy through a colour-coded, intuitive format. Different types of radiation manifest as distinct shapes and colours, allowing for precise analysis and interpretation of experimental data.

With TimePix, students can actively engage in scientific exploration by designing their own investigations, whether studying background radiation levels in various environments or examining the effects of shielding materials, fostering hands-on learning and deeper scientific curiosity. By providing an engaging, interactive way to explore fundamental physics, TimePix bridges the gap between theoretical learning and real-world application. Having access to such advanced technology, which allowed us to participate in truly impactful experiments, was incredibly empowering.

Beyond the thrill of exploring concepts far beyond the standard curriculum, it also boosts confidence in one’s ability to learn, conduct research and share ideas -- opportunities one may not otherwise experience.

One of the most transformative aspects of TIMEPIX@school is the confidence it instils in students, reshaping their perception of science from a rigid academic subject to an engaging and empowering pursuit. Science is not merely about memorising formulas or passing exams. It also raises curiosity, critical thinking and problem-solving, essential skills that define real-world scientific inquiry. By working with the same cutting-edge technology used by professional researchers, students do not just passively absorb knowledge but actively engage as scientists, designing their own experiments, collecting and analysing real data and contributing to a global network of young researchers. This hands-on experience not only enhances their scientific understanding but also plays a pivotal role in shaping their career aspirations.

Exposure to advanced tools at an early stage enables students to envision themselves as future physicists, engineers and data scientists, breaking barriers and broadening their opportunities. Having access to high-level scientific equipment and real-world experimentation can profoundly impact a student’s academic and professional trajectory, equipping them with the skills and confidence to explore, innovate, and meaningfully contribute to the ever-evolving world of STEM.

TimePix is a global movement dedicated to transforming STEM education. By establishing regional hubs in schools and universities, CERN and its partners are ensuring that every student, regardless of location or socioeconomic background, has access to high-quality, hands-on science education. The impact of this initiative is already profound, with over 20,000 students engaged worldwide, 400 TimePix kits distributed globally, and direct contributions to five of the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), all while fostering greater diversity in the STEM workforce.

However, the mission is far from complete. Expanding the reach of TIMEPIX@school requires ongoing investment, collaboration, and support from educators, policymakers, and donors. By working together, we can continue breaking barriers, creating opportunities and empowering the next generation of scientists and innovators, ensuring that STEM education remains accessible, engaging, and impactful for students worldwide.

Education is the cornerstone of innovation, and supporting TIMEPIX@school is not merely funding a project. It is an investment in the future of scientific discovery. Whether an educator aiming to bring TimePix into the classroom, a researcher eager to collaborate on STEM outreach or a donor committed to expanding access to cutting-edge educational tools, every contribution plays a crucial role in shaping the next generation of scientists and innovators.

This collective effort has the power to ignite curiosity, break down barriers, and empower young minds to explore, experiment and solve the challenges of tomorrow.

The writer is a professor of physics at the University of Karachi.