Hundreds of venues opened for Belgium’s Day of Science

The 15th Day of Science took place on Sunday, with hundreds of organisations, universities and companies across Flanders and Brussels opening their doors to the public. Under the slogan “Science is Everywhere”, people of all ages joined simple workshops, demos and hands-on experiments.

Organisers said the event was important because fewer young people are choosing science and technology studies. Activities covered topics such as AI, genetics, chemistry and art. In Ghent, researchers explained how toddlers’ socks might relate to autism, while in Antwerp visitors learned how maths appears in Islamic art. The nuclear research centre in Dessel also opened for the day, letting children “hunt” neutrons and learn about nuclear energy.

This year saw a very large turnout of children. In Ghent, many families ​ (sometimes with grandparents) spent the day trying the activities. Event ambassador Angelique Van Ombergen said children were most excited when they could do things themselves.

Kids programmed mini forklift trucks, tested food and even made an ultrasound of a horse. Adults could attend talks and debates on future foods, aquaculture and sustainable building.

Van Ombergen said she was happy to see so many young visitors, especially now that interest in science and technology studies is falling. “Events like this help children discover science in a fun and easy way,” she said.

^{#FlandersNewsService | The 15th edition of Science Day at Ghent University © BELGA PHOTO JONAS D'HOLLANDER}