Children's Technical University at UWB has new graduates. Eighty pupils received their diplomas

A few months ago, they watched in awe as their first 3D print slowly took shape. Today, they're holding a university diploma. On May 28th, 83 pupils graduated from the Children's Technical University at the Faculty of Mechanical Engineering, University of West Bohemia in Pilsen.

From September to May, young students at the Faculty of Mechanical Engineering of the University of West Bohemia in Pilsen explored the world through virtual and augmented reality, using technical kits, they tackled engineering challenges and got a hands-on introduction to energy systems, including renewable sources and nuclear power. Among the most popular activities were chemistry experiments, and they also discovered how plastic and metal 3D printing works or what metal machining looks like.

In a festive atmosphere, and in the presence of parents and teachers, the Dean of the Faculty of Mechanical Engineering, Vladimír Duchek, handed out diplomas to all participants on the last Wednesday of May. He reminded them that technical thinking isn’t just for adults. “We’re proud to have been part of your first steps into the world of technology. Don’t forget to display your well-earned diploma at home – it’s proof that when you approach something with courage and enthusiasm, you can achieve great things,” said the dean, adding: “Today is not the end. The world of technology is like a giant Lego set – there’s always something to build, improve, and discover. I hope to see some of you back here one day as students of our faculty.”

The Children's Technical University is not just a Pilsen project. This year, 40 children participated in Pilsen, 35 in Klatovy, and 8 in Sokolov. “I loved the big 3D printers the most – it was amazing to see them in action. The best part was that we got to try everything ourselves,” said nine-year-old Lukáš, one of the graduates.

Parents' feedback also confirms that the Children's Technical University of the Faculty of Mechanical Engineering makes sense. “I know organizing, planning, and putting all this together isn’t easy. It takes a lot of energy and effort – thank you for everything,” wrote one mother, whose fourteen-year-old son took part in the program.

The Children's Technical University is supported by the Pilsen Region, the cities of Pilsen and Klatovy, Doosan Škoda Power, Konplan, the nonprofit organization Úhlava from Klatovy, the Secondary Technical School Klatovy, J. Vrchlický Grammar School Klatovy, the Secondary School of Agriculture and Food Klatovy, and the Integrated Technical and Economic School Sokolov. The Faculty of Mechanical Engineering is already preparing the next edition. Classes are set to start again in September, and registration will open in June. More information is available at www.detskatechnickauniverzita.cz.