The Hochschule Niederrhein (HSNR) recorded a record number of 26 offers and 262 participants at this year's nationwide Girls' and Boys' Day. At the Krefeld and Mönchengladbach campuses, pupils were given practically oriented studies, research and professional fields - from technology and digitalisation to design, health, Applied Social Sciences and administration. As a result, the University of Applied Sciences 2026 not only offered more formats than ever before, but also reached more participants than ever before.
The focus was on interactive and experimental programmes in which the young people could become active themselves. The technical offerings ranged from robotics and artificial intelligence (AI) in the AI lab, 3D visualisation and animation to product design, 3D printing and virtual reality. Creative and trade formats such as enamelling, textile design and upcycling also met with great interest.
Science, health-related and social faculties also opened their doors. The programme included insights into engine development, DNA and nutrition, the hygiene and cleaning technology laboratory, midwifery and Applied Social Sciences. In addition, the young people were able to familiarise themselves with the work in the university library, the HR department and the university management.
"It is important to us to open up perspectives for young people that go beyond traditional role models. Girls' and Boys' Day shows how diverse the paths to studies, research and careers are at our university," says Dr Sandra Laumen, Equal Opportunities Officer at The Hochschule Niederrhein.
The re-registration of the participants was also positive. "I chose plastics recycling because I'm interested in materials science. I would like to work in aerospace and I read that Matthias Maurer also studied something like that," reports one Girls' Day participant. Anton (14 years old) from Geilenkirchen adds: "I'm here today because I wanted to try something new." These statements reflect the aim of the day of action: to get young people interested in different careers and open up new perspectives.
By taking part in Girls' and Boys' Day, HSNR is sending out a clear signal in favour of equal opportunities, stereotype-free career guidance and the early promotion of young talent. The wide range of programmes on offer underlines the university's commitment to promoting young talent and bringing science and practical applications to life in the region.
