Elementary School Children Become University Students for a Day at VUB

Nearly 150 Brussels children participated in unique child-friendly workshops on the VUB campus on March 21

March 21, 2024

On Thursday, March 21, the Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB) invited fifth- and sixth-grade students to spend a day as real university students on its Etterbeek campus. This was made possible by VUB Kinderuniversiteit (Children’s University). Dedicated researchers introduced the students to science and research through unique workshops tailored to children’s natural curiosity. The university deliberately chose to work with entire classes, with a special focus on schools in Brussels.

“A day to never forget!”, “A world of discovery!”, and “A fun and educational day where children learn that studying can be done in many different ways,” were just a few of the reactions from teachers and classes over the years about these creative workshops at VUB Kinderuniversiteit.

The “students” started their day on campus in a lecture hall, where they were prepared for a full day of workshops led by VUB researchers. The program offered a diverse range of topics from both natural and social sciences. Children learned about the wonders and dangers of volcanoes, built small robots, designed their ideal school, and much more! After an intensive day of engaging workshops, the students graduated from the Kinderuniversiteit, celebrated with a diploma ceremony led by Nadine Engels, Vice Rector for Education at VUB.

Science in primary education is not always a given, as most teachers are not specialized in specific scientific fields. VUB supports primary school teachers through Kinderuniversiteit, encouraging them to inspire their students with science. Motivating children at an early age to consider a career in science is essential, as study choices are often made early in their school trajectory.

In the spring, the workshops will resume, and classes can register for individual sessions. Researchers can visit schools in Brussels, or classes can choose to visit the VUB campuses in Jette or Etterbeek. VUB Kinderuniversiteit also provides child-friendly teaching materials, which are free to download from www.vubkinderuniversiteit.be. These ready-to-use resources allow teachers to independently incorporate science into their classrooms.

VUB Kinderuniversiteit is part of the broader Research – Outreach and Communication initiative at VUB. This initiative has previously launched projects such as the Brussels Science Box, Science Festival Brussels, and Kinderuniversiteit on Tour to engage children with science. Through these initiatives, the Vrije Universiteit Brussel has reached thousands of young people.