Lyngby - Around 300 future students and their parents showed up at Marie Kruses Skole's (MKS) annual information meeting 31 January 2007.

In his welcome speech Frank E. Christensen, principal of MKS, mentioned the integration of language, science and social science. But, obviously, he emphasized the construction of a brand new science building due for completion this summer.

"Globalisation demands knowledge and creativity. Not least within the scientific area. In order to offer youngsters a unique and international education we have started our Science High School," said Frank E. Christensen, principal of MKS.

"Our initiative has attracted interest from large international companies, for example Bayer which is an innovative and research-driven company. Bayer is present here tonight," Frank E. Christensen added.

Visionary co-operation

Representatives from Bayer Norden Corporate Communications were ready to face curious and excited students and parents as well as teachers.

Judging by the number of visitors at the Bayer stand and the nature of the questions there was a high degree of interest in the future co-operation. Especially parents were interested in what is in the cooperation for Bayer and how students would benefit from this.

Apart from answering questions, Bayer's representatives were busy handing out publications, e.g. "research", "report", subgroup information and give-aways.

Both science and language teachers were interested in using Bayer's publications in their classes for the purpose of integrating science and language. As a truly international company, Bayer will be able to support both fields of interest.

Feedback from the information meeting has confirmed that students and parents consider the contact to the business sector as a visionary move. 

 

Talking to tomorrow's scientists

"There is a lack of young people interested in science and this constitutes a problem to society," explains Alfred Sørensen, Deputy Head Bayer Norden Corporate Communications. "When MKS contacted us last year we immediately accepted the offer. As a science-based company we hold a responsibility of strengthening the awareness of science among young people."

Bayer is strongly committed to CSR activities and MKS' dedicated efforts within science are visionary and in line with Bayer's way of thinking.

The future cooperation with MKS also allows Bayer to introduce the educational programme Making Science Make Sense. Making Science Make Sense strengthens young peoples' interest in science and sustainable handling of natural resources.

Additionally, the programme supports education which creates room for laboratory experiments and experimental teaching. MKS' new science building will be a place where students can practice science and not just read about science.

"As a research-based company we will get in touch with tomorrow's scientists and we are looking forward to contributing with our knowledge within research and innovation," says Alfred Sørensen.

Science is all around us

Despite the fact that young people have become less interested in science they are heavy users of new technologies. Imagine a teenager without a cell phone, an mp3 player, a Playstation, an Xbox or the like. In line with cd's and dvd's – these are results of science. And on top of that they are interested in environmental topics e.g. climate changes and lack of nature's own resources. Science may help solve these issues.

In line with the mission statement "Science For A Better Life" it is Bayer's job to create awareness about the fact that science is everywhere and that we all depend on science.

Bayer Norden's presence at MKS' information meeting was the first step in the co-operation. Corporate Communications are planning further meetings with the teachers and the management staff.

Young people are increasingly important when we are talking science. The are not only heavy users of science – they are the key to future progress.