Promoting young talent: schoolgirls immerse themselves in the world of science on Girls’Day

A wonderful tradition at ZBT: every year, we invite schoolgirls to be researchers for a day on the nationwide Girls’Day. How do you measure the pH value? How does a fuel cell work? And how do you do electrolysis? Girls’Day 2024 provided the answers.

Five schoolgirls recently immersed themselves in the world of research and development at this year’s Girls’Day at ZBT. In our laboratories and workshops, they learnt about the principle of a fuel cell, measured pH and conductivity values, performed microscopy, produced various measurement solutions and practised titration. And finally, they were also able to work in the mechanical workshop, where they learnt how to solder, among other things.

This day at the ZBT offered the schoolgirls their first insights into the everyday working life of female scientists, physics laboratory technicians, chemical technicians, chemical/physical-technical assistants, tool mechanics, materials testers and electronics technicians.

The annual Girls’Day provides an insight into apprenticeships, degree programmes and professions that few women have chosen to date. The day of action promotes the talents of schoolgirls and brings them into contact with exciting professions and role models.

In addition to Girls’Day, Boys’Day is also organised at the same time. While girls gather impressions in IT, the trades, natural sciences or technology, boys meet male role models in care, educational professions, the service sector or social work.

These action days are the world’s largest careers guidance programme, which promotes the idea of choosing a career and course of study free from role stereotypes. Pupils from year 5 onwards visit companies or universities, meet role models in professions that are still predominantly practised by women or men and discover their individual strengths and talents.

Next year, a few schoolgirls will once again be able to immerse themselves in our laboratory worlds. No diving device required – just curiosity!

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