“Innovation Day” Argentina
Berlin, 21 June 2024
The scientific coordinator of the Network of Argentinean Scientists and acatech member Andrés Lasagni hosted the “Innovation Day” on 6 June 2024, which was also the network’s annual conference. Experts from science, industry and politics, including acatech President Jan Wörner, discussed the topic of “Promoting STEM subjects”.
Founded in 2009, the network of Argentinian scientists in Germany supports networking in Germany and the development and expansion of cooperation between Argentinian and German universities and scientific institutions. The network is currently headed by acatech member Andrés Lasagni. In his role, he invited representatives from science, business and politics to the “Innovation Day” on 6 June 2024 to discuss the promotion of STEM subjects.
The Ambassador of the Argentine Republic to Germany, Fernando Brun, hosted the event. In his welcoming address, he emphasised the need for international cooperation and paid tribute to the more than 20 networks of Argentinian scientists in various countries in Europe and around the world.
In his keynote speech, Andres Lasagni emphasised the importance of mathematics, IT, science and technology as core skills for progress, innovation and prosperity, while also pointing out the shortage of skilled workers that not only Argentina but also many other countries around the world are facing.
In his keynote speech, Jan Wörner emphasised that we need more young people who can meet global and national challenges such as climate protection and digital transformation with innovative solutions and STEM expertise in order to ensure our country’s ability to innovate. He also sees good STEM education as a prerequisite for participation in civil society, professional development and equal opportunities. However, he also describes how the results of the acatech Young Talent Barometer show that STEM subjects and professions are still considered unattractive for many young people. Only a few start vocational training in the technical field, especially girls. Jan Wörner therefore emphasises the importance of promoting technical and scientific interests and skills at all stages of life. The interaction between science, companies, society and social partners must always be taken into account. People and their motivation are at the centre of this.
In the subsequent panel discussion, which also included representatives from the Fraunhofer-Gesellschaft and the Kinder forschen foundation, there was a consensus that motivation and artistic-creative approaches are key to getting young people around the world interested in STEM subjects. Educators and teachers can have a decisive influence here.
