IMC Krems Hosts Graduation for 260 Young Students at 20th Anniversary of Young University

At the IMC Krems University of Applied Sciences, 260 children and teenagers celebrated the completion of their week-long immersion in science and research, marking the 20th anniversary of the institution's Young University programme. The initiative, designed for participants aged 10 to 13, aims to foster curiosity and early engagement with academic disciplines through a dedicated schedule of lectures and workshops.

During the week from July 13 to 17, the young participants attended a diverse series of 28 lectures and 57 workshops, exploring various scientific fields. The programme's structure allowed students to experience the atmosphere of higher education, interact directly with university professors, and take part in hands-on experiments. Topics ranged from astronomy and 3D printing to medical science and creative scientific experiments, offering a broad overview intended to spark interest in future academic pursuits.

The culmination of the week was a formal ceremony in the university's event hall, where the young students took an academic pledge to remain curious and engaged in science throughout their lives. The graduation was marked by the traditional tossing of graduation caps, mirroring the customs observed by university graduates. This event also served to highlight two decades of the Young University's contribution to educational outreach and science promotion among youth.

The ceremony was attended by family members, academic staff, and guests from the fields of business, science, and politics. Notable attendees included representatives from the university's leadership as well as a member of the National Council, who was present on behalf of regional authorities. Their presence signaled the broad support for initiatives that promote early scientific education and community engagement.

One of the distinguishing features of the Young University is its affordability and inclusivity. Thanks to support from sponsors and partner organizations, participation fees for families are limited to ten euros per child. This ensures access to a high-quality educational programme regardless of a family's financial situation, and provides reliable childcare during the school holidays.

This year, the event also incorporated a charitable initiative in partnership with the Stepic CEE Charity Organisation, supported by the RBI Group. Children were encouraged to bring used school bags, which were collected at the university. These bags, after being filled with supplies by partner companies, will be distributed to children in need in Austria, Slovakia, and Romania, extending the reach of the event beyond the local community.

The 2026 edition of the Young University was organized under the theme "It's all in me," emphasizing the importance of nurturing the interests and talents inherent in every child. Organizers highlighted that early exposure to academic environments and research activities can instill lifelong skills, curiosity, and a positive attitude toward learning. The week's activities were carefully curated to encourage independent thinking, experimentation, and a deeper understanding of science and technology.

Throughout the week, the young participants were guided by university lecturers, workshop leaders, and moderators. The programme included a retrospective of the past two decades, with children revisiting key moments and learning experiences through a 'secret box' containing objects from various workshops. This interactive recap allowed them to reflect on the breadth of subjects explored and to share their insights with peers and families.

IMC Krems University of Applied Sciences continues to prioritize outreach and educational innovation, with the Young University serving as a model for how higher education institutions can inspire future generations. By combining academic challenge with accessible programming and social responsibility, the event aims to broaden participation in science and foster a culture of lifelong learning among young people.