Okayama University's Exciting Workshop Enhances Children's Interest in Science

Okayama University's Exciting Workshop: Inspiring Future Scientists

On September 18, 2025, Okayama University's Comprehensive Technical Department, part of the National University Corporation Okayama University, hosted an event titled "Waku Waku Experience Workshop" at the Asahi Children's Club, Ijiman School. This initiative focuses on integrating various experiential activities into the daily care provided by after-school programs. The workshop was organized upon request from the Club and marked its inaugural session.

A total of 42 elementary school students from the club participated in engaging activities designed to ignite their curiosity about science. The young learners were divided into groups to experience three exciting themes: "Let's Make a PET Bottle Kaleidoscope," "Let's Play with Slime," and "Let's Make Bath Salts." Each theme was not only well received but also facilitated a lively environment where children enthusiastically listened to their instructors and collaborated with their peers.

In the "Let's Play with Slime" session, Ayaka Kubota, the chief technical staff from Tsuyama College of Technology, reflected on the experience, stating, "When students mixed laundry glue and borax solutions together, they were met with cheers as their slime took shape. Some children even combined different colors of glue to create unique colors of their own, showcasing their curiosity about science and creativity. I hope this event enables them to discover the interesting side of science and fuel their motivation for future learning and career decisions. It was a privilege for me to share the joy of experimentation with them."

Nobuhito Sato, the Vice Director and Senior URA, who oversees the Comprehensive Technical Department, commented on the department's ongoing endeavors, saying, "We are committed to various initiatives not only within our university but also in collaboration with the local industry and government to foster the wonder and excitement in children's learning. We aim to continuously enhance the development of our technical staff as well."

As part of its community outreach and science awareness activities, the Comprehensive Technical Department has been remarkably proactive, collaborating with the Faculty of Engineering to host workshops across various platforms both within and beyond the university. The emphasis remains on creating stimulating and enjoyable themes through which children can engage with science and make it more accessible.

This workshop represents a significant step in Okayama University's journey as a leading regional research university dedicated to nurturing young minds. We hope the community will continue to support our efforts to provide hands-on experiences that encourage a deeper appreciation for science among the future generations.

For more information on the Comprehensive Technical Department and their initiatives, visit the official website of Okayama University at techall.okayama-u.ac.jp and learn more about Asahi Children's Club at asahi-kodomoclub.jp.