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Lakeside Park was once again transformed into a showcase for young science: As part of the 2025 STEM Fair, students from Carinthia’s STEM middle schools presented their research projects in the fields of mathematics, computer science, natural sciences, and technology. Under the motto «Show what we can do,» the students impressively demonstrated the curiosity, creativity, and spirit of inquiry with which they tackle current challenges.
Eight STEM middle schools from across Carinthia took part in the event; a total of 24 research stations were set up—each school sent three teams. The projects presented ranged from sustainable city models to the design of a deposit-return machine of the future, the production of biodegradable plastic, and the functioning of hybrid powertrains. Microbiological topics, such as the role of bacteria, were also explored.
The students went through the entire research process: from developing their own research questions to formulating hypotheses and conducting experiments, and finally presenting their results. A panel of experts evaluated the projects on site.
Bernhard Lamprecht, managing director of Lakeside Park, emphasized the central role of the Educational Lab, which inspires young people to take an interest in STEM subjects from an early age: «The STEM Fair is a strong indication of how educational spaces like the Educational Lab can serve as incubators. This is where the next generation of researchers and professionals is being nurtured—people who will shape Carinthia and beyond.»
The Educational Innovation Lab (EIL) at Lakeside Park supports educational innovators in developing, implementing, and disseminating new concepts. Particular emphasis is placed on a structured innovation process, as well as on evaluating and documenting the results.
Martin Krenn, the founder of the MINT Fair, was thrilled by the students’ dedication: «Every year, this fair demonstrates just how independently and passionately students research, discover, and create. I’d also like to thank the teachers who guide them along this path as mentors—as well as our partners and sponsors, especially LAM Research, for whom the professionals of tomorrow are taking the stage here.»
The MINT Fair is part of the pilot program «MINT Focus in Schools,» initiated by the Federal Ministry, which has been in effect since the 2022–23 school year. The specialized curriculum allows for an in-depth exploration of future-oriented topics such as digitalization, sustainability, and technological change.
The 2025 STEM Fair sent a strong message about the potential of young people to actively shape the future. It demonstrated the importance of educational initiatives that foster a spirit of discovery and problem-solving skills—abilities that are more in demand than ever in a changing world.
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First-place winner: Jonas Duller | Bacteria Trap: Searching for Clues in Everyday Life and the Power of Hygiene | Völkermarkt Middle School
For questions and further information:
Dipl.-Päd. HOL MA Martin Krenn
martin.krenn@schule.at
Organization & Info
Verbundmodell Praxismittelschule (PMS) der Pädagogischen Hochschule Kärnten
BIKO mach MINT
Martin Krenn
martin.krenn@schule.at
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