900 experimental kits for secondary schools in the Basel area
The SimplyNano 2 project in the cantons of Basel-Land, Basel-Stadt and Solothurn provides 900 free SimplyNano 2 experiment kits for all secondary schools. This allows learners to experience nanotechnology firsthand and deepen their understanding of the applications of this technology. Fascinating effects from the world of nanochemistry are illustrated with hands-on experiments and novel nano-materials. Accompanying experimental courses for teachers are held at companies. In the process, the teachers receive theoretical input and additionally important information about apprenticeships and training opportunities in the companies. The project thus creates a “bridge” between schools and professional practice.
BASF focuses on young skilled workers and innovation
During their visit, the teachers first gained an insight into BASF’s fields of activity in Switzerland. Country Manager Matthias Halusa presented the chemical company as an important employer and driver of innovation: “In many cases, it is innovative solutions from chemistry that help to meet the great challenges of our time. These include new technologies and materials such as those produced by BASF.” To promote the teaching of science, BASF is involved in the SimplyNano project, among others. This underscores BASF’s commitment to the region and its commitment to promoting young professionals and the timely training of apprentices. BASF employs around 1,000 people in Switzerland and operates production sites in Schweizerhalle (BL), Kaisten (AG) and Monthey (VS).
Enthusiasm among teachers
In the second part of the course, Christoph Meili gave an introduction to the theoretical foundations of nanotechnology. Afterwards, the participants had the opportunity to experiment themselves and take a closer look at the experiments and materials in the case. Among other things, experiments were carried out with “superabsorbents”. The powdery, extremely absorbent material is found in baby diapers and ensures that babies stay dry. Incidentally, also a product manufactured by BASF. The teachers were enthusiastic about the experiments and the suitcase. Erik Pleuler, physics teacher and member of the school board at the Fachmittelschule Basel judged: “I am pleased that we receive such professional and comprehensive material.” Pleuler knows how much work it takes to develop such experiments for school lessons. “The SimplyNano 2 cases support our teaching mission well. Through the practical relevance and their own experience, students retain experiments better in their memory than abstract teaching content.”
An award-winning educational project also for schools abroad
The SimplyNano project is a nationwide educational project that is already running in ten cantons. It is to be rolled out in all secondary schools across Switzerland by the end of 2025. The project has met with a very positive response in the chemical industry, in the MEM sector as well as in engineering professions. For example, the project recently won the coveted Swiss Building Award, proving that SimplyNano is an innovative and cross-sector education project. In the medium and long term, the trilingual (German, French, English) SimplyNano experimental kits are to be used in other European countries. After all, companies abroad are also dependent on well-trained young professionals.
Source: Innovation Society
Image source: BASF Schweiz AG