High school students researched and discovered at the Faculty of Science, UJEP: the event showcased science in practice and the magic of teaching
More than sixty third- and fourth-year secondary school and grammar school students from the Ústí nad Labem Region arrived at the Faculty of Science of the University of Jan Evangelista Purkyně in Ústí nad Labem on Thursday, September 11, 2025, to take part in the all-day event Discover, Explore, Innovate. The faculty organized the event as part of a project aimed at popularizing science and teaching, which was financially supported by the Ústí Region.
Students had the opportunity to choose the workshops that interested them most. During the day, they immersed themselves in the world of physics, chemistry, biology, geography, computer science, mathematics, and nanotechnology. For example, they tried their hand at programming artificial intelligence, creating their own video games, microscopic observation, and preparing crunchy ice cream from liquid nitrogen. There were also demonstrations of modern laboratory techniques, the basics of working with unknown chemicals, and an insight into how mathematicians think.
In addition to practical activities, students also attended several inspiring lectures—for example, on nanotechnology, genetic mutations, how to engage students in biology, and why (not) to become a teacher. The program also included an informal discussion with a faculty student who openly answered high school students’ questions about studying and life at the university. The faculty also presented its study programs, including those for teachers, and highlighted the opportunities for studying abroad under the Erasmus+ program. Students also had the opportunity to tour the university campus and visit the modern scientific library, which showed them the facilities that the university offers its students.
“We wanted students to get to know the natural sciences in a different way than just from textbooks—as an area where they can create, explore, and find connections to everyday life. At the same time, we wanted to give them a feel for the atmosphere of studying at our university and show them the facilities that the faculty offers. An important part of the program was also to remind them of the importance of teaching, because it is teachers who can awaken interest and guide the younger generation. We believe that we succeeded, and we are very happy that the day took place in such an open and inspiring atmosphere,” said RNDr. Regina Herma, Ph.D., Vice-Dean of the Faculty of Science at UJEP for External and International Relations.
The event lasted from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. and included refreshments and space for sharing experiences between individual blocks.
The faculty will offer another opportunity to experience the atmosphere of the “Learn, Explore, Discover & Innovate” event on October 9, 2025. Students can look forward to a similar program full of workshops, discussions, and lectures opening the door to the world of natural sciences and discovery – whether they were unable to attend in September, did not fit into the first date, or want to try activities they did not have time for last time.
More information about the program and registration can be found here.
The project is being held thanks to the support of the Ústí Region, which is promoting education and the development of technical and scientific fields in the region.