Cultivating Skills and Abilities Initiative
In a significant development for the Landshut region, the MINT Cluster 'Future Workers - Engaging all MINT talents' has received continuation funding from the Federal Ministry of Research, Technology, and Space (BMFTR) until 31 August 2027. This decision secures the preservation of the cluster's structures and enables the sustainable anchoring of MINT educational offerings in the region.
The MINT Cluster, composed of several partners including the city of Landshut, MINT Forum Bavaria, University of Landshut, Silicon Vilstal, World Acre Landshut, and DOM, has made a strong impact since its inception in September 2022. Over the past year, it has established a robust, extracurricular educational offering for children and young people in the city and district.
The project's success can be largely attributed to the voluntary commitment of its partners, who have made over 675 coach deployments. This dedication has allowed approximately 6,000 children and young people to participate in various formats offered by the MINT Cluster.
The MINT Cluster's central goal is to inspire children and young people aged 8 to 16 for mathematics, computer science, natural sciences, and technology (MINT). To achieve this, the cluster hosts an annual regional MINT day, featuring science shows, practical workshops, company information stands, and special attractions such as the 'Innotruck' of the BMBF.
Looking ahead, the focus of the MINT Cluster from 2025 to 2027 will be on consolidating existing offerings and strategically expanding the network. The cluster plans to build long-term partnerships to ensure its future-proof independence from funding periods.
Notable long-term future partners include the District of Gießen with its cities and communities, offering a broad range of activities including MINT focus in schools and youth programs, as well as the Technical University of Central Hesse and local actors in the region of Middle Hesse committed to sustained MINT education for children and youth.
The continuation of the MINT Cluster also includes the start of a second project phase for the 'Child-friendly Municipality' Landshut. The project aims to be structurally and financially sustainable in the coming two years, with the goal of opening up future-oriented prospects for children and young people interested in MINT fields.
The decision to continue funding the MINT Cluster is an important signal for the Landshut region, demonstrating the commitment to fostering a strong MINT education ecosystem and preparing the next generation for the challenges of the future.
