On October 24 and 25, 2024, the Kinepolis Kirchberg came alive with the 5th edition of Rock de Rack, a major event bringing young people together through educational, fun, and interactive activities. At the heart of this edition were innovative workshops, gathering around 600 children and teenagers for an immersive journey into the world STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Mathematics).
Organised over two days by Le Ministère de l’Égalité des genres et de la Diversité(MEGA), these workshops blended learning, creativity, and physical engagement through dynamic and engaging formats.
WIDE ANDCO had the privilege of hosting multiple sessions on the themes of women in STEM and cybersecurity, exchanging with over 130 students.
Our team transformed the Kinepolis auditorium 6 into a stage for interactive and engaging learning using quizzes and open discussions.
Spotlight on Cybersecurity
The first part of our activity explored essential questions to raise awareness about online safety and pupils’s basic knowledge of cybersecurity concepts:
- What should you do in case of cyberbullying?
- What makes a strong password?
- Why are software updates important?
Beyond everyday digital safety practices, these discussions also delved into sensitive topics, such as the gender disparities in experiences of cyberbullying.
Playing hackenator.lu to boost their cybersecurity skills
Complementing the quiz on cybersecurity, every teenager had the chance to play Hackenator.lu, our educational game designed to raise awareness on various cybersecurity topics. With individual computers, they explored safe online practices in a fun and engaging way.
The response was overwhelmingly positive, particularly among the many video game enthusiasts—both boys and girls.
Celebrating Women in STEM
The next day, we guided the children on a journey to discover the women who shaped the history of science and technology. Questions like “Who is Ada Lovelace?” or “What is the leaky pipeline phenomenon?” shed light on women’s challenges in these fields while celebrating their significant contributions.
The goal was to demonstrate that despite today’s gender gap, women have always played a crucial role in science.
Creating Cards Highlighting Women in STEAM
The participants delved into the history of science through a workshop where they tackled their creative and tech side. Working in small groups, they designed cards featuring one of the sixty iconic women we had selected from Aganice to Françoise Barré-Sinoussi. After searching information about their scientist and presenting their creations to the class, the children organised the cards into a chronological timeline, illustrating the enduring presence of women in science over the centuries.
This workshop challenged their creativity and teamwork while sparking a collective reflection on the importance of female representation in these fields.
The Rock de Rack 2024 successfully merged creativity, education, and collaboration, offering its young attendees a rewarding and unforgettable experience. This initiative sets the stage for future editions, sparking inspiration and awakening curiosity in all those who participate.
