The school team from the RBZ Wirtschaft in Kiel tackled their question "Responsible innovation, more than just sustainability: How can innovation not only pursue economic goals, but also take social and ethical aspects into account?" and sought a solution in collaboration with the lecturers. The pupils developed an idea for a café as an initial reintegration opportunity for former addicts, who can get a foot in the door to a normal everyday working life by working in the catering trade. In addition to local organizations, the school team had already contacted the employment agency and received a positive response. Financial and organizational aspects were also taken into account.
The pupils presented this idea at the northern regional final of the competition. Although they did not win, they were able to show that they care about inclusion, second chances and, above all, breaking with prejudices. Participation is also a great enrichment for the lecturers, says Anna Reith: "Every year, the YES! competition offers us as researchers the opportunity to enter into an inspiring exchange with young, committed pupils from all over Germany. It is impressive to see how the teams work with us to develop innovative approaches to finding socially relevant solutions." They hope this will have a long-term effect, as Maximialian Bauer sums up: “The WFI at the KU makes a valuable contribution to getting students excited about academic work and introducing them to methodical work.”
WFI lecturers supervise school team at YES!
