IRPPS together withNational Institute of Nuclear Physics organized two days to address the issue of gender in scientific research, with particular reference to the physics sector. The events promoted within the framework of the European project GENERA, Gender Equality Network in the European Research Area, involved 12 countries, 18 research institutions and 13 observer bodies. Part of the two days was dedicated to upper secondary schools which were involved in a competition of ideas on the theme 'Women, science and gender prejudices' which saw the participation of over 150 classes. Students were invited to prepare a paper in the form of a video or written contribution. This competition had the purpose of soliciting active participation to encourage reflection on gender stereotypes in the world of research, activating moments of study, discussion and extra-curricular collaboration within the classes.