On Thursday, March 21, the Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB) will invite fifth- and sixth-grade children to experience a day as real university students at the Etterbeek campus. This is made possible by VUB’s Kinderuniversiteit (Children’s University). Dedicated researchers will introduce the students to science and research through unique workshops tailored to children’s natural curiosity. The university specifically focuses on working with entire classes, with special attention to Brussels schools.

“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,” are just a few of the reactions from teachers and classes over the years about these creative workshops at VUB Kinderuniversiteit.

The “students” will begin their campus day in the lecture hall, where they will be prepared for a day full of workshops led by VUB researchers. The program offers a variety of topics from natural and social sciences. Children will learn about the wonders and dangers of volcanoes, build small robots, design their ideal school, and much more! After an exciting day of fascinating workshops, the students will “graduate” from the Kinderuniversiteit with a diploma presented by Nadine Engels, VUB’s Vice Rector for Education.

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 scientific career is crucial, as educational choices are often made early in a student’s school career.

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

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

Program for Thursday, March 21

9:20–9:35 Welcome (Building I)

9:35–9:50 Opening Activity (Building I)

10:00–11:45 Workshop Series 1:

  • The Great Infection Game

  • Wonders and Dangers of Volcanoes

  • Sports Heroes

  • Cheese Bacteria: Villains and Chefs

  • A School Above the Clouds

  • Liver Expedition: The Secret Superstar of Your Body

  • From Brain to Human

11:45–12:45 Lunch Break (Nelson Mandela reception area or outside on the grass)

12:45–14:30 Workshop Series 2:

  • The Great Infection Game

  • Sports Heroes

  • A School Above the Clouds

  • Liver Expedition: The Secret Superstar of Your Body

  • From Brain to Human

  • Welcome to the World of Robots!

  • From Hearing Loss to Cochlear Implants

14:30–15:00 Snack & Class Photos (Nelson Mandela reception area)

15:00–15:30 Diploma Ceremony with Nadine Engels (Nelson Mandela reception area)

Location

Vrije Universiteit Brussel

Aula I

Pleinlaan 2, 1050 Elsene

Use campus entrance 6 or 7 (via Triomflaan)

Nelson Mandela Hall (under Building Q)

Pleinlaan 2, 1050 Elsene

Use campus entrance 13

For more information about the program and workshops:

Fran Geys

Vrije Universiteit Brussel – Research Department

Building M, Room 1.01

Pleinlaan 2, 1050 Elsene

+32 491 07 10 14