#Japan #Tokyo #Tokyo Denki University #D-SciTech Program #Future Engineers

Dive into Science: The D-SciTech Program

Tokyo Denki University, under the leadership of President Tadahiko Iba, is set to kick off the much-anticipated third year of its hands-on workshop series, the D-SciTech Program, starting in June 2025. Supported by local governments and in collaboration with various companies, this initiative targets elementary school students who harbor a passion for science and have aspirations of becoming future engineers.

The mission behind this program is simple yet profound: to cultivate a love for science in children and inspire them to dream big about becoming engineers in the future. Since its inception, the D-SciTech Program has received tremendous positive feedback, with slots filling quickly at every registration opening. It’s aimed at instilling a deep understanding of scientific principles through hands-on activities that encourage exploration and experimentation.

The D-SciTech Program, scheduled to run from June to October 2025, will feature 10 workshops, with potential for more in November and beyond. The program will involve collaboration with seven notable companies, including Nissan Motor Corporation and Adobe, showcasing a diverse array of themes that resonate with the children’s everyday lives. Participants will learn about hydraulic power, pneumatic systems, and electricity while also engaging in sustainability and upcycling initiatives that align with the global SDGs (Sustainable Development Goals).

Main Themes of the Workshops:

Some of the exciting themes lined up for the workshops include:

• - Understanding Hydraulic Systems: Learn the workings of construction machinery powered by hydraulic controls in collaboration with Kato Works.
• - Air Pressure Experiments: Engage in puzzle-solving with the “Linicon” and electric drivers, presented with Nitto Koki’s expertise.
• - Static Electricity and Plasma Tech: Explore the fascinating world of electromagnetic phenomena with Kasuga Electric.
• - Electric Vehicle Insights: Discover the relationship between CO2 emissions and clean energy, alongside hands-on activities featuring electric cars with Nissan.
• - Upcycling Challenge: Reimagine plastic bottle caps in collaboration with Asahi Yuas.
• - Creative Poster Design with AI: Utilize generative AI tools for an engaging poster creation experience supported by Adobe.
• - Introduction to Electronic Circuits: Build basic circuits using breadboards with guidance from the university staff.
• - Emulsion Science: Experiment with making mayonnaise to understand the mixing of oil and water.

Schedule of Events:

The workshops will be held on selected Saturdays and Thursdays from June to October, featuring a blend of on-campus sessions and outreach activities. Highlights include:

• - June 21: Explore the wonders of hydraulic machinery with Kato Works.
• - June 28: Tackle air-related puzzles with Nitto Koki.
• - July 5: Delve into electrostatics with Kasuga Electric.
• - July 12: Learn about electric vehicles and even charge model cars with Nissan.
• - July 19: Participate in an upcycling project with Asahi Yuas.
• - August 21: Uncover the science behind emulsions during a mayonnaise-making workshop.
• - August 26-27: Dive into poster-making via generative AI alongside the 'Adachi University Relay Lecture'.
• - October 4 and 25: A family-friendly electric class and a workshop on engines are also scheduled.

Each workshop is designed to engage students from grades 3 to 9, fostering collaboration between university faculty and industry engineers to create enriching educational experiences. Participants can join these workshops free of charge, making STEM accessible and engaging for everyone.

A Commitment to Community:

Tokyo Denki University has long committed to community engagement, working to inspire young minds with the wonders of technology and science. The institution not only supports educational initiatives but also partners with local governmental and corporate entities to build a future-oriented and technology-savvy generation.
This approach not only addresses the immediate educational needs of children but emphasizes critical thinking and innovation as essential skills for the future.

As part of the university's ongoing efforts, further events and hands-on workshops in electronics and science are regularly organized to inspire curiosity and creativity among students. The D-SciTech Program showcases a commitment to co-creating knowledge and fostering a love for learning—an essential step toward developing the engineers of tomorrow.