Exciting STEM offers during autumn holidays Autumn Academy "MINTeraktiv" again offers a free program around mathematics, computer science, natural sciences, and technology

Oberbergischer Kreis. Research, tinker, discover, and experiment: During the autumn holidays in 2026, the zdi Center investMINT Oberberg once again invites you to the Autumn Academy "MINTeraktiv". From October 19 to 30, 2026, students from the Oberbergischer Kreis can look forward to a diverse and free program centered around mathematics, computer science, natural sciences, and technology.

This year as well, the participating educational partners, companies, and institutions have put together a varied holiday program. The range includes hands-on technical activities, scientific experiments, and digital and innovative topics. A particular highlight is the multi-day "Gib Gummi Academy" from October 26 to 29, 2026. Under the guidance of Prof. Danka Katrakova-Krüger (TH Köln), children aged 10 to 12 will learn about the material rubber and its significance for technology and sports. Together with the company Schwalbe, they will explore topics such as bicycle tires and their sustainable reuse; at the TTC Schwalbe Bergneustadt, they will then practically test the connection between different rubber compounds and table tennis.

"MINTeraktiv offers children and young people the opportunity to experience MINT in a very hands-on and joyful way," says Bastian Thelen, zdi network coordinator in the Oberberg Educational Office. "This year, in addition to the technical topics, we want to focus even more on future skills. Curiosity, creativity, collaborative problem-solving, and independent work are important abilities that young people need for their future. My heartfelt thanks go to all the providers who participate in the Autumn Academy with great commitment and make these diverse offerings possible."

Participation in all events is free of charge thanks to the dedication of the involved providers. Since spaces are limited, early registration is recommended.

The complete program and registration information are available at www.bildung-in-oberberg.de

For further information, contact Bastian Thelen, zdi network coordinator in the Oberberg Educational Office, at phone number: 02261 88-4012 or via email: bastian.thelen@obk.de

zdi stands for "Future through Innovation.NRW" and, with over 4,000 partners from politics, business, schools, and universities, is the largest network in Europe for promoting MINT talents. The zdi Center investMINT Oberberg in the Oberbergischer Kreis has been part of the joint initiative since 2011. In cooperation with daycare centers, schools, companies, initiatives, and universities in the Oberbergischer Kreis, the focus is on the young professionals of tomorrow. Their curiosity for math, computer science, natural sciences, and technology (MINT) is to be sparked at an early stage. This benefits the Oberbergischer Kreis as an economic region with many talents and globally sought-after products; future-oriented and high-tech.