The TH Lübeck was not only the host of the network meeting, but also a committed partner in the MINT area. It has been supporting MINT schools for many years and, with the JuniorCampus, is actively committed to supporting children and young people in mathematics, computer science, natural sciences and technology. Janina Mahncke from JuniorCampus was also there, and as a member of the accreditation jury, she accompanies and advises schools on their way to being recognized as a MINT school.
These schools manage to meet children and young people where their strengths lie
says Mahncke. “You see potential that sometimes remains hidden in traditional teaching.”
More than mathematics, computer science, natural sciences and technology
MINT schools stand for innovative educational concepts in mathematics, computer science, natural sciences and technology. Ten community schools currently bear the “MINT School Schleswig-Holstein” seal. At the network meeting at the TH Lübeck, a school was newly accredited, and an existing MINT school also received its recertification.
The award is given for four years. The prerequisite is an extensive application process in which schools have to prove that MINT education is firmly anchored in their everyday school life. It’s not just about additional technology offerings or modern equipment. What is crucial is how schools sustainably combine scientific and technical learning with creativity, teamwork and a connection to everyday life.
Also at TH Lübeck: MINT means more than just formulas and experiments
For the MINT jury, this is precisely where the network’s particular strength lies: MINT means much more than formulas or experiments. The students learn to solve problems, work together and implement their own ideas. They experience that they can do something and make a difference.
One of the participants at the newly accredited school was a student who has been enthusiastically involved in beekeeping for several years. She came up with the idea herself, looked for a beekeeper and, as a young beekeeper, is now training other children herself. Her classmate, who was also present that day, makes no secret of the fact that the traditional school system is not necessarily his favorite form. What he can do, however, is work as a craftsman. He is currently building a bee house, can calculate the statics and is trying out materials.
Schools that are breaking new ground
Many of the award-winning schools develop unusual concepts for this. They combine scientific projects with language development, career orientation or manual work. Students research, build, program and develop their own solutions to real-world problems.
What is particularly impressive is the creativity with which schools respond to existing challenges and consistently look for ways to support and encourage their students.
Such offers can create a decisive experience of success, especially for young people who struggle with traditional lessons. When a self-programmed robotics project works or a technical problem is solved, self-confidence arises – and sometimes a completely new perspective on one’s own future.
The TH Lübeck as a partner in MINT education
At the network meeting, TH Lübeck presented teachers with a selection of its diverse offerings for promoting young talent. In addition to workshops and exchange formats, participants received insights into various university laboratories, including the robotics and high-voltage laboratories.
The aim was to convey new ideas for teaching and to show opportunities for collaboration. Digital formats are also playing an increasingly important role. Through the JuniorCampus, TH Lübeck now supports schools far beyond the region – for example through online experiments, digital workshops or hybrid teaching offers.
We want to support schools, regardless of where they are in Schleswig-Holstein
explains Mahncke. Not every school can come to the university regularly. That’s why we’re developing formats that allow us to come directly into the classroom.
Shaping the future together
For the TH Lübeck, this commitment is part of its self-image: to get young people excited about science, technology and innovation at an early stage and to make educational paths visible. It’s not just about studying later, but about discovering talents and opening up perspectives.
Or, to say it with Janina Mahncke: Every child has individual potential. The challenge is to recognize them and give them the space they need to develop.
This is exactly what the MINT schools in Schleswig-Holstein stand for – and this is exactly what TH Lübeck supports them as a strong partner.