Robots, formula cars, and a train controlled by thought, that was Science and Technology Day

On Friday, September 19, the twentieth annual Science and Technology Day of the University of West Bohemia in Pilsen took place on Pilsen's Republic Square. Visitors could try out experiments, immerse themselves in virtual reality, or learn about new technologies and humanities.

Science and Technology Day returned to the center of Pilsen after a year-long hiatus, reminding us that science is not just a matter for laboratories and classrooms, but can be accessible to all generations. All nine faculties of the University of West Bohemia, the university institute, and other university departments took part in the 20th anniversary edition.

There were 40 exhibits on display in the square. Visitors encountered a robotic dog, looked inside a university ambulance, and tried their hand at generating electricity on special exercise bikes. The formula car built by a student team from the Faculty of Mechanical Engineering and demonstrations from the field of biomedicine also attracted a lot of interest. There was even a train controlled by thought.

In addition to technical fields, the varied program also offered insight into the humanities. The Department of Archaeology at the Faculty of Arts demonstrated the use of modern technologies in field research, while other stands introduced children and visitors to the principles of chemical reactions. On stage, experts presented the latest developments in robotics, medicine, and energy.

The event was intended for both schools and the general public. Entire classes from primary and secondary schools in Pilsen and the surrounding area arrived at the square. Children were fascinated by experiments with colors and the opportunity to play rescue workers in a university ambulance. Students and teachers especially appreciated the opportunity to try out the technologies for themselves.

Jan Váně, Vice-Rector for External Relations and Communication at the University of West Bohemia, pointed out that this anniversary edition brought changes in the concept and layout of the stands: "We call this event 'A Day with the University' — all our departments present science. We took a break last year, and this year we refreshed the format and exhibitions to make it clear that science and the university are evolving."

In addition to the Pilsen Region, the city of Pilsen also expressed its support for the event. "I graduated from the Faculty of Education, and I am very happy about that because I still benefit from it today. The UWB Science and Technology Day is a great event because it makes education accessible to pupils and students and allows them to acquire new skills and knowledge in a fun way," said Lucie Kantorová, Deputy Mayor for Education and Tourism.

You can listen to the audio report and view photos from the event below and here.