The Faculty of Mechanical Engineering at the University of Ljubljana has successfully concluded the fourth edition of its Summer Research Camp, Explore and Drive the Future, where high school students from across Slovenia spent five days experiencing life as young researchers and engineers. Working alongside faculty researchers in state-of-the-art laboratories, participants explored scientific phenomena, conducted experiments, developed innovative ideas, and discovered how technologies that shape the future are created.
From 29 June to 3 July, students took part in hands-on research projects under the guidance of researchers from the Faculty of Mechanical Engineering. The programme combined practical laboratory work, experimental investigations, advanced technologies, computer simulations, and the presentation of research results prepared by the participants at the end of the camp.
Throughout the week, students explored a wide variety of engineering topics. They investigated the motion of bubbles in water and compared experimental observations with computer simulations, analysed the aerodynamic properties of aircraft, learned about robotic manufacturing and smart modular factories, built model aircraft and composite components, examined green urban surfaces, tested environmentally friendly water hydraulics, explored laser technologies, gained insights into polymer injection moulding, determined the mechanical properties of materials through tensile testing, and investigated multifunctional nature-inspired surfaces.
In addition to laboratory activities, participants were introduced to the Faculty’s world-class research infrastructure and attended presentations delivered by researchers. These sessions provided valuable insights into technological development in areas such as sustainable mobility, advanced manufacturing, energy systems, novel materials, and other key fields of modern mechanical engineering.
At the conclusion of the camp, participants presented the outcomes of their projects, demonstrating that curiosity, creativity, and strong mentorship can help young people develop a research mindset and successfully tackle demanding engineering challenges in just a few days.
Prof. Jernej Klemenc, Dean of the Faculty of Mechanical Engineering at the University of Ljubljana, highlighted the broader significance of engineering education:
“Modern engineering is no longer only about developing new products or technologies. It is about connecting knowledge from different disciplines, thinking creatively, and having the courage to search for solutions to the challenges faced by our society. At the Faculty of Mechanical Engineering, we want to show young people that even the boldest ideas can take shape through research, collaboration, and perseverance. I am delighted that so many curious and motivated students joined us again this year to learn how the future is created. I believe this experience will inspire many of them to continue their engineering journey with us.”
The Explore and Drive the Future Summer Research Camp is part of the Faculty’s long-term efforts to promote science and engineering among young people. By opening its laboratories to secondary school students, the Faculty provides direct exposure to research activities, encourages creativity, critical thinking and teamwork, and supports students in considering their future academic and professional paths.
This year’s camp once again demonstrated the remarkable curiosity, creativity, and research spirit of young people. Experiences such as these often inspire the next generation of researchers and engineers who will develop innovative technological solutions to society’s future challenges.
More pictures from the event: https://www.fs.uni-lj.si/sporocila-za-javnost/zakljucil-se-je-4-poletni-raziskovalni-tabor-raziskuj-in-poganjaj-prihodnost/
