3 min. of research fun for a child in Germany

In Germany, the future prospects of children and young people often depend on their family background. Studies have shown that students from privileged families often perform better in school than their classmates from disadvantaged backgrounds, and their skills in science subjects are even up to two school years ahead (OECD 2023; Maaz et al. 2022). This significant inequality in learning clearly demonstrates that schools alone cannot do enough to give every child equal opportunities. This is precisely where the Junior University comes in, filling a crucial gap. Through close collaboration with social institutions, schools, and projects in the Bergisches Land region—especially in neighborhoods that are in particular need of support—the Junior University reaches children and young people who lack sufficient resources and support in their school and daily lives. These children receive preferential access to the programs. A study by the University of Wuppertal confirms this, showing that the Junior University reaches a particularly large number of children from disadvantaged families and provides them with targeted support (Makles, Schneider & Terlinden 2022). Many of the affected children don't even know that learning can be truly fun. The Junior University therefore offers courses that playfully introduce children to the joy of research and discovery – regardless of their background.