#Japan #Okayama University #Okayama City #Sannan Community Center #Science Activities

Exciting Summer Science Activities at Okayama University

On August 4, 2025, the Okayama University Technical Department participated in the 'Sannan Community Center Summer Kids Club.' Following a successful turnout last year, they aimed to inspire even more young minds this year. The event took place at the Sannan Community Center in Okayama City, and despite a draw preventing participation last year, the enthusiasm continued for this year’s event.

This year's exhibition featured three exciting themes: "Making Shimmering Kaleidoscopes from Bottles," "Creating Bath Bombs," and "Playing with Slime." A total of 20 elementary school students were chosen through a lottery to take part, split into three groups to experience each of the thematic booths.

High school volunteers from Okayama Sannan Gakuen assisted in the event, aiding in setup, registration, and guiding participants. Their support was vital to the smooth operation of the activities. According to the children’s feedback during the closing assembly, the kaleidoscope crafting was a standout favorite, with many participants expressing their enjoyment.

During the 'Making Shimmering Kaleidoscopes' session, children chose beads, marbles, and clips to design their unique kaleidoscopes. The creation process fostered artistic expression and ignited their imagination. The 'Creating Bath Bombs' station allowed children to select their preferred shapes, colors, and scents. They followed up by carefully observing the fizzy reaction as water was added to the bath bomb powder, likening it to carbonated drinks.

'Playing with Slime' was another popular attraction, allowing the children to mix colors and discover different textures. This hands-on experience proved to be a perfect fit for the summer creativity surge.

The event concluded with a thoughtful greeting from Yoshihiko Tamura, the head of the Technical Department, who addressed the students and volunteers, highlighting the importance of engaging young minds in science.

Miriko Morii, a research assistant at the university's Health System Integration Science Department, expressed, "Having participated for the first time, I was deeply impressed by the ongoing commitment of the Technical Department to inspire children safely and engagingly. I look forward to continuing my collaboration while translating this experience into outreach activities relevant to my specialty."

Noriaki Sato, Vice President and Senior UA of the Technical Department, also emphasized the collaborative efforts with Okayama Sannan Gakuen, saying, "We are thrilled to have shared the excitement with the local children once again this year. Developing talent based on technology is a critical activity that enhances the motivation of our technical staff. We aim to spread wonder through various technological avenues in the future."

Both the Technical Department and the School of Engineering at Okayama University strive to engage children in science in fun and meaningful ways. They actively organize outreach initiatives to bring science closer to the next generation. This commitment aligns with the university’s vision of becoming a unique research institution fostering innovation within the community.

Expect further exciting events and activities from Okayama University and the Technical Department as they continue promoting science and technology among local youth, aiming to spark curiosity and creativity in the minds of the next generation.

For more information, check the official websites of the Okayama University Technical Department and Sannan Gakuen.