Riga Technical University (RTU) Curiosity Centre Futurimo Riga, RTU Children and Youth University’s interest education classes across Latvia and the “Girls in STEAM” programme, “University for Future Engineers” classes for students of upper secondary education, RTU Science and Innovation Centre’s Design Factory for everyone – these are the main activities that will be presented at the exhibition “From Curiosity to Inventions: Interest Education for the Whole Family”, which opened on 8 March in the exhibition space RTU and Origo Future Stop, providing an opportunity for children and their parents to participate in creative activities together.

RTU as a science university has a number of initiatives specifically aimed at promoting STEAM education in order to strengthen the interest of children, young people and society in STEAM fields. This is the first time that most of what RTU offers in the field of STEAM is presented in one place. The exhibition will be open until June.

The exhibition will feature selected exhibits from RTU Curiosity Centre Futurimo Rīga, which will give an insight into the relationships between the laws of natural sciences, as well as a special table for creative activities.

“STEAM education is more than just learning maths and other science subjects. It unleashes curiosity, creativity, critical thinking, responsibility and decision-making skills in children and young people, preparing them for a successful future career in any field,” says Elīna Gaile-Sarkane, RTU Vice Rector for Academic Affairs, encouraging everyone to visit the exhibition in person and challenge yourself in STEAM by choosing the activity that suits you best.

The exhibition will provide information about the interest education classes in electronics, mathematics, physics, chemistry, mechanical engineering, aeronautics, environmental sciences, drone building, economics, innovations, which RTU Children and Youth University offers in an exciting way for students from kindergarten to high school. “Girls in STEAM” programme is designed specifically for girls to inspire them to explore the exciting world of science. The annual lectures “University for Future Engineers” are a series of classes for 8–12 year-olds, offering face-to-face sessions once a month at RTU Ķīpsala centre with a knowledgeable professional to explore the fields of science, engineering and technology, economics and innovation, as well as architecture and design.

The exhibition will give an opportunity to learn about RTU’s open workshop “theLAB”, where anyone can bring to life their inventions using the technological possibilities provided by 3D printing, laser cutting and engraving, plotting, large-format printing and other auxiliary tools.

“This exhibition is proof that innovation and education go hand in hand with sustainable development. As a modern and green shopping centre, Origo is already implementing future-oriented solutions – from environmental accessibility to energy-efficient technologies. We create an environment where science and technology are accessible to everyone and we are proud to be part of the RTU’s STEAM initiative. This exhibition gives you the opportunity to be inspired by young talent, discover creative solutions and take part in the innovation process yourself. A sustainable future starts today – with innovation, smart solutions and a shared vision,” says Viktorija Bižāne, Marketing Manager of Origo Shopping Centre.

The exhibition will be open free of charge in the exhibition space RTU and Origo Future Stop until June 2025 on weekdays from 9:00 to 21:00 and weekends from 10:00 to 19:00 on the second floor of the new building of Origo Shopping Centre at Stacijas laukums 4. RTU and Origo Future Stop was created to introduce the general public to the latest technological solutions, scientific discoveries, and achievements of RTU students, engineers and scientists.

Photos: Vitālijs Vinogradovs, RTU