The Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB), in collaboration with the HELIOS Foundation, has launched a new academic chair focused on STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics). Over the next four years, this initiative will train young talent to become the sustainable innovators of tomorrow. Central to the project is the sustainable renovation of a former municipal school, transforming it into a state-of-the-art STEAM Academy, alongside a research programme focused on well-being and decarbonisation.

With this chair, we aim to inspire young people to engage with subjects like mathematics, science, and technology, and to actively involve them in sustainable innovations. Our goal is to transform an old municipal school into a cutting-edge STEAM Academy, using the most advanced sustainable technologies available. This renovation project will serve as a model for energy efficiency, insulation, lighting, heating, and ventilation. It will be a flagship example of circular and sustainable renovation in Belgium, with decarbonisation as its core principle.
Prof. Dr. Ir. Hugo Thienpont
Chairholder and academic coordinator
Workshops and Activities for Young People

As the donor behind the chair, the HELIOS Foundation will launch a wide range of activities. This includes STEAM workshops and activities for primary and secondary school students, designed to spark curiosity and develop essential skills.

In addition to these educational efforts, the chair will also support academic research, resulting in international publications, participation in conferences, and contributions to European policy debates. Guest lectures and seminars will explore the impact of STEAM education on young people's career prospects and its broader societal impact. The chair will also spearhead targeted research into sustainable building technologies, with the renovation of the STEAM Academy in Gooik serving as a practical, real-world example.

About the HELIOS Foundation

Climate change and mental well-being in the workplace are two critical challenges in Belgium. The HELIOS Foundation aims to address these societal issues over the coming decades. By supporting innovative solutions, the foundation seeks to achieve carbon neutrality and contribute to improved employee well-being. With a focus on corporate mindset and efficiency, HELIOS aims to create a lasting, positive impact on both the mental health of employees and Belgium’s ecological footprint.

About the Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB)

The Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB) is an internationally oriented university located in Brussels, the heart of Europe. Through high-quality research and tailored education, VUB aims to make an active and engaged contribution to a better society.

All VUB chairs are managed by the VUB Foundation, the university’s fundraising and development office.*

*This is a machine translation. We apologise for any inaccuracies.

Contact - VUB Foundation

Elisabeth Rabaey
Head of VUB Foundation
📞 +32 492 55 21 23
📧 Elisabeth.Rabaey@vub.be
🌐 vub.be/nl/steun-de-vub

Contact - HELIOS Foundation

Luc Lallemand
📧 luc@heliosfoundation.be
🌐 heliosfoundation.be