Science and Nature in Harmony: Environmental Laboratory Opens its Doors
by Onur Aydin
In alignment with Maya Schools’ vision to nurture environmentally conscious generations, the Maya Environmental Laboratory has officially opened as a unique learning space where science and nature converge. The opening ceremony, attended by Golbasi District Governor Erol Rüstemoğlu and various stakeholders committed to environmental sustainability, sparked hope for a more sustainable future.
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The laboratory provides students with immersive, hands-on learning experiences in vermicomposting, aquaponics, and mushroom cultivation. By fostering an understanding of nature, promoting conservation, and encouraging the development of sustainable solutions, the Maya Environmental Laboratory aspires to contribute meaningfully to the future of our planet.
The initiatives developed within the laboratory aim to reduce water consumption, recycle waste, and promote harmonious living with the environment. They also aim to enhance students’ individual growth and societal awareness. Guided by the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and integrated into the ICSE Factory framework, the laboratory represents not just an educational environment but the inception of a vision that contributes to the world of tomorrow.
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Initially designed in collaboration with the Öğretmen Foundation and Hacettepe University, the laboratory is part of the ICSE Factory initiative and includes activities such as Open Schooling Lighthouse programs and interactive career talks. These efforts aim to provide a forward-thinking educational model integrating environmental awareness and academic rigor.
Shaping STEM education across Europe
The ICSE Science Factory project marks a pivotal first step in shaping STEM education across Europe, focusing on health, sustainability, and digitalization. Engaging students with practical initiatives like Lighthouse Activities, Open Schooling Projects, and Career Talks, aims to inspire action for a sustainable future and promote STEM careers, especially among women. As this innovative approach continues across Croatia, Cyprus, Germany, Portugal, and Turkey, the project’s impact on education and global challenges looks promising. Together we pave the way to discovery and enable the next generation to innovate beyond the limits of today’s knowledge and find solutions for a future worth living.
Stay connected with ICSE for updates on our journey to enrich STEM education and follow our ICSE channels for more information!
The creation of these resources has been funded with the support of the Horizon Europe programme of the European Union under grant no. 101093387. Views and opinions expressed are however those of the author(s) only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or the Agency. Neither the European Union nor the granting authority can be held responsible for them.
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