#Japan #Tokyo #FANCL #Pharmaceutical Science #Kids Workshop

FANCL's Engaging Workshop for Young Minds

In a bid to inspire the next generation's interest in pharmaceuticals, FANCL, in collaboration with the Kanto Branch of the Japanese Pharmaceutical Society, hosted the 2025 Children's Experiment Project titled "The Secrets of Shapes in Medicines and Supplements!". This workshop took place at their comprehensive research institute and marks the 11th edition of this annual initiative aimed at social contribution. Through hands-on experiences and cutting-edge research demonstrations, the event aimed to provide young participants with a glimpse into the fascinating world of pharmaceuticals.

A Day of Discovery

The workshop welcomed 19 parent-child pairs, all hailing from the 4th to 6th grades of elementary school. The day's activities were packed with engaging experiences designed to stimulate curiosity and learning about the science behind the medicines we consume. Participants enjoyed a tour of FANCL's research institute, a skin measurement experience, and a chance to create their very own supplements alongside skilled researchers.

The highlight of the event was undoubtedly the supplement-making session, where participants explored the shared production techniques of pills and capsules. They learned about the critical technology that transforms hard-to-swallow ingredients into more palatable forms. This provided a practical understanding of how these products are made and why certain attributes, such as shape and size, are essential.

The Magic of Tablet and Capsule Creation

During the tablet-making segment, children had the unique opportunity to witness the transformation of powder into compressed tablets. They actively participated, engaging in hypotheses and explorations regarding how varying pressure impacts the tablet's density and how long it takes to disintegrate in the stomach. Questions like "Why did this happen?" and "What will occur next?" sparked a lively and interactive learning atmosphere.

The capsule-making challenge was equally thrilling. Children competed to see who could fill the most capsules and do so with the least variation. This competitive yet fun format kept everyone engaged and served as an important lesson in the complexities of supplement manufacturing.

Observations and Insights

Beyond just the creation process, participants also spent time examining the physical differences between tablets and capsules. They engaged in discussions surrounding the reasons for their distinct shapes and sizes, as well as the convenience these formats offer in daily life. The use of demonstrations and quiz-style learning helped solidify their understanding.

The energy in the room was palpable, with many participants eagerly raising their hands to share insights and engage with each other, creating a spirited environment conducive to learning.

Celebrating Young Achievements

At the conclusion of the workshop, the committee chair from the Kanto Branch of the Japanese Pharmaceutical Society presented certificates of recognition, dubbing the children as "Junior Pharmaceutical Doctors". The smiles on their faces as they received their awards illustrated the joy and satisfaction they derived from the experience.

Parental Feedback

The feedback from participating parents was overwhelmingly positive. Many expressed gratitude for the educational value of the event and shared hopes that it might kindle a lasting interest in chemistry for their children. Comments included phrases like "an excellent opportunity for children to consider various career paths," and "it was heartening to see our children so engaged and excited about what they were learning."

Overall, this event not only served as a platform for knowledge-sharing but also ignited curiosity about the world of pharmaceuticals. FANCL's commitment to nurturing young minds in the field of science is commendable and should inspire similar initiatives in the future.