#Japan #Okayama University #Kurashiki #Kids University #Comprehensive Technology

Engaging Young Minds at the 'Sunday Kids University' in Kurashiki

On June 1, 2025, Okayama University's Comprehensive Technology Division participated in the 12th edition of the 'Sunday Kids University', hosted by the Okayama University Consortium at Life Park Kurashiki. This exciting event attracted nearly 2,000 participants, including 1,068 children and 925 adults, all looking to explore the wonders of science and technology.

The event encouraged participants to engage in various educational activities ranging from experiments to crafts. Aimed at fostering closer connections between the community and local universities, the initiative involved 16 universities from Okayama Prefecture, each showcasing unique educational and research activities.

The Comprehensive Technology Division had two main offerings that day. In the morning, they hosted a workshop called 'Create a Sparkling Kaleidoscope with Plastic Bottles,' while the afternoon featured 'Make Your Own Fizzy Bath Powder.' A total of 148 children and 137 parents joined in the morning kaleidoscope-making workshop, where participants learned how to safely handle scissors under the supervision of staff. With the help of specially designed parts created using 3D printers and accessible construction methods, even the youngest attendees could successfully make their own kaleidoscopes, much to the joy of both children and their parents.

During the afternoon session, unrestricted participation in the bath powder-making workshop allowed even more children to get involved. Young creators mixed baking soda and citric acid, and they squirted just the right amount of ethanol with pipettes. Despite facing some challenges during the process, they expressed excitement and curiosity as they experimented and learned.

Yuko Hojo, a technical specialist from the Equipment Analysis and Flora and Fauna Resource Technology division who participated for the first time, shared her enthusiasm. She recounted moments when children were amazed to see how placing a pen on a box created by a 3D printer allowed them to draw straight lines to their targets. Parents were equally impressed, inquiring about the advanced technology behind the acrylic parts that fit perfectly into the plastic bottles.

Hojo commented, "Creating the kaleidoscopes was delightful for the children, and during the bath powder-making, many expressed that it felt like making a meal, highlighting the fun of engaging with science in a hands-on way."

Sato Nobuhito, the Vice President of Okayama University and head of the Comprehensive Technology Division, expressed gratitude to the organizers for creating such a remarkable space. He noted that providing thrilling experiences driven by technology significantly boosts motivation for staff members. Looking forward, he reaffirmed the commitment to expanding such engaging experiences for children through various avenues, inspired by technology.

The outreach and science education activities by Okayama University’s Comprehensive Technology Division, conducted in collaboration with the Faculty of Engineering, embrace a mission that goes beyond the campus. They actively target various themes that allow the next generation to enjoy and appreciate science, ensuring that these topics resonate in a fun and engaging manner. Anticipation is high for the continued innovative efforts from Okayama University’s Comprehensive Technology Division as they contribute to the advancement of both the local community and the realms of scientific exploration.

This event marked a significant milestone for fostering connections and igniting the curiosity of future generations, reflecting Okayama University’s commitment to nurturing the scientific minds of tomorrow. Expect more exciting opportunities ahead as the university continues to engage with its community through educational innovation and hands-on science activities.