14th MINT Lab Days launched

MINT stands for mathematics, computer science, natural sciences and technology. However, there is a lot going on not only on campus, but also with the cooperation partners from the Fulda region, who together form a network for the funding of young talent with the Fulda University of Applied Sciences' MINTmachClub project. A total of around 1,400 children and young people are once again taking part in the network's twice-yearly series of events this spring.

The G6 class from Jakob-Grimm-Schule in Rotenburg, for example, had a lot of fun on campus. The pupils placed Lego bricks on top of each other, which gradually resulted in a small robot dog. Michael Mai from the MINTmachClub showed the class how to programme on a laptop. And together the groups managed it: the little dog made noises and sat down. This was a completely new experience for the pupils: "We've never worked with robotics before. This is really fun." Michael Mai explained: "We combine elements of applied programming here. The children form groups for this, so we want to show that Together we are successful."

"Our pupils are enthusiastic about the workshop and are happy just to be able to go to a university," report teaching staff Eva Hofmann and Anne Riehl. They have both attended the STEM lab days at Fulda University of Applied Sciences on several occasions. Their conclusion: "The process is particularly exciting. Over the course of the workshop, the children lose their fear of contact. They get to grips with new topics and become more and more confident."

Getting the next generation excited about technology and science
"We are delighted to be able to offer a varied program again this year. It is important to establish offers in the education sector at an early stage, especially in view of the shortage of skilled workers in the STEM sector. In addition to the syllabus, participants can tinker, tinker and experiment - this is how interest in the topics is awakened," explains Susan Gamper, who heads the MINTmachClub Fulda. "In this context, I am particularly grateful for the commitment of our departments and cooperation partners. Their employees pass on their knowledge and passion, making it possible to once again offer a total of 65 workshops this semester."

A wide range of offers from creative computer science to animated film production
The school classes from Fulda and the entire region can do more than just get to grips with the little robot dogs. They also have the opportunity, for example, to spend a morning learning about food rescue or trying out laboratory experiments. They can learn how to make an animated film and have the universe explained to them by cooperation partners such as the Children's Academy or get involved in archaeological activities at the Vonderau Museum. The topics are diverse and vary from year to year.

More about the MINT Lab Days