“My name is Kavya, and I want to pledge that I will do everything in my power to halt or slow down global warming. It’s already causing the extinction of animal species and putting our planet in danger,” declared 11-year-old Kavya B solemnly, reflecting on her enriching experience at the BASF Kids’ Lab. She was among over two thousand children who enthusiastically embraced the role of climate champions during the 10-day program, jointly organized by BASF in partnership with the Visvesvaraya Industrial and Technological Museum in Bengaluru.
BASF Kids’ Lab provides children with a hands-on laboratory experience that introduces them to the marvels of chemistry through safe, simple, and captivating experiments. Designed for children aged 6 to 12 years, the program aims not only to spark their interest in science but also to inspire them to become advocates for climate action.
Launched in India in 2004, BASF Kids’ Lab has made a significant impact nationwide, reaching over 50,000 school children. The 2023 edition of the program, focused on climate change as part of BASF India’s Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiative, featured enhanced content including interactive climate models and exhibits. “We specifically targeted children from underprivileged backgrounds and have been overwhelmed by the enthusiastic response,” said Sunita Sule, Head of Country Development at BASF India, who conceived and organized the initiative.
The Bengaluru event, hosted at the Visvesvaraya Industrial & Technological Museum from June 19, 2024, was inaugurated by Smt B. B. Cauvery, Commissioner of the Department of School Education, Karnataka, alongside K. Sajoo Bhaskaran, Director of the museum, Achim Burkart from the German Consulate General in Bengaluru, and Ms. Sunita Sule.
Reflecting on the success of the program, Alexander Gerding, Managing Director of BASF India Limited, emphasized, “By nurturing a passion for science and environmental responsibility from a young age, we empower children to make a positive impact on our planet. Since its inception, BASF Kids’ Lab has engaged over 50,000 students and teachers across India, underscoring BASF’s commitment to education, sustainability, and future generations.”
Partnering with the Visvesvaraya Industrial & Technological Museum, K. Sajoo Bhaskaran expressed enthusiasm about the collaboration, stating, “We are delighted to collaborate with BASF for BASF Kids’ Lab on Climate Change. This initiative exemplifies our commitment to equipping youth with hands-on tools that promote scientific literacy and environmental stewardship. It aims to benefit students from government schools by providing them with knowledge and resources to comprehend and address climate change.”
Looking ahead, BASF Kids’ Lab on climate change is set to visit more cities across India in the coming months, continuing its mission to inspire and educate the next generation of environmental leaders.
