Would Latvian rapper Fiņķis make a good teacher?

Musician Helvijs Fiņķis and Mārtiņš Vancāns, head of the energy company Enefit, took on the role of teachers for a day, participating in a physics lesson organized by the foundation Iespējamā misija (Mission Possible) at Carnikava Secondary School. Under the guidance of an experienced teacher, the two guests prepared for a lesson on energy, during which students not only learned the theoretical basics, but also built a prototype generator.

During the lesson, students learned what energy is, how it is generated, and why understanding it is essential both in the operation of various devices and in everyday processes. The practical approach helped to link theoretical knowledge with real-life examples, while stimulating interest in physics, engineering, and technology. Musician Fiņķis added extra value to the lesson by talking to the kids in a way they could understand, encouraging them to think bigger and see STEM fields as real and achievable future opportunities.

Mārtiņš Vancāns points out that "Latvia still lacks specialists in the STEM field, and this problem is becoming more acute every year. However, the situation can be addressed by inspiring young people and showing them how exciting and socially significant these fields are."

Helvijs Fiņķis emphasizes: "In my opinion, it is essential to help young people realize how vast the world is and what opportunities it offers. That is why I have tried to listen to and support young people both in and outside of school, and I will continue to do so in the future."

Although the importance of technology and engineering in the world is constantly growing, in Latvia, students still rarely choose to take centralized exams in STEM subjects—physics, chemistry, biology, and computer science. These subjects are often perceived as difficult, so students often prefer other options. In the long term, this reduces the number of young professionals in sectors where demand in the labor market is particularly high.

To promote change, Enefit, in collaboration with Iespējamā misija, is inviting young and experienced professionals to apply for the initiative Enefit Iespējamā misija: Izglābt STEM (Enefit Possible Mission: Save STEM). The aim of the program is to attract and train new teachers – agents of change who can inspire students and improve learning outcomes in STEM subjects.

Over two years, program participants gain both theoretical and practical knowledge for working in schools, starting with a summer academy, where five weeks of intensive training cover the basics of pedagogy and provide motivation for work, followed by regular training, mentoring, and support throughout the program.

Applications for the 2026 Enefit Mission Possible: Save STEM program are now being accepted.

For more information and to apply, visit: www.skolasmaratons.lv