Young talents conduct research at the Leverkusen campus

Five days filled with a thirst for knowledge, a love of experimentation and the exchange of ideas

The State Seminar marks the conclusion of the first two regional rounds of the IChO. Over four intensive days, the pupils engage with chemical methodologies and experimental challenges that go far beyond the scope of regular school lessons. As well as hands-on laboratory exercises, the young talents gain an insight into scientific research and the chemical industry – and get to know like-minded people with whom they can exchange ideas. The programme also includes a wide range of cultural and sporting activities.

Laboratory Day at the Leverkusen Campus: Fluorescein Synthesis and Analysis

In the laboratory of the Faculty of Applied Natural Sciences, the young people worked in pairs to synthesise the versatile fluorescent dye fluorescein. They then used the synthesised dye to analyse a chloride-containing solution. This experiment taught the young researchers fundamental laboratory techniques and gave them first-hand experience of how chemistry works in practice.

Professor Dr Dirk Burdinski, who supervised the seminar, praised the group’s achievements: “It is with no small amount of pride that I can say you have all mastered the challenges with flying colours. The experience you have gained will stand you in good stead as you progress through school and in future competitions, and perhaps even as you embark on your degree course – ideally in chemistry at the Leverkusen campus.”

A ceremony with Minister Dorothee Feller

The following day, Dorothee Feller, Minister for Schools and Education of the State of North Rhine-Westphalia, honoured the dedicated participants at a formal ceremony attended by Prof. Dr Axel Faßbender, Vice-President for Teaching and Student Affairs at Cologne University of Applied Sciences.

In her speech, Minister Feller emphasised the importance of STEM subjects – that is, subjects in the fields of science, technology, engineering and mathematics – for our society: “The natural sciences not only explain how our world works; they also open up the possibility of shaping our future responsibly.” “Whether it’s climate action, energy supply, medical progress or digitalisation – the major challenges of our time cannot be addressed without skills in maths and the natural sciences. That is why we need young, talented people like you, who are passionate about STEM, for science and research, for business and innovation, and for our society as a whole.”

She also highlighted the need to support the next generation of scientists: “The findings of the latest IQB Education Trends 2024 report show that there is a considerable need to catch up in mathematics and the natural sciences, both nationwide and here in North Rhine-Westphalia.” "They send a clear message that we must further strengthen our support for maths and science education. That is why we, as the North Rhine-Westphalian state government, are focusing specifically on promoting STEM subjects in our schools, alongside our priority of strengthening basic skills."

Partnership boosts STEM subjects

In his welcoming address, Professor Dr Burdinski also addressed the challenge facing many scientific disciplines: “Unfortunately, the STEM subjects are not always the first career choice among school pupils. This is why competitions such as the International Chemistry Olympiad are of paramount importance.” “Through the close collaboration between schools and universities, and the outstanding commitment of teachers – in particular the IChO regional representatives Andrea Küsters and Dr Simon Scheren – we are sending out an important message. Together, we are highlighting the significance of our scientific discipline for the state of North Rhine-Westphalia – Europe’s leading centre for chemistry.”

Andrea Küsters, the IChO regional representative, also values the collaboration with TH Köln: “We receive excellent support, planning and preparation here. As a teacher, I know just how much work that involves.” She also encouraged the pupils: “With your curiosity and your knowledge, you are taking responsibility. You can change the world. The chemical industry develops sustainable materials, promotes environmentally friendly energy sources and provides innovative solutions. It improves people’s lives and, in doing so, makes the world a brighter place. I’ve seen just how creative you all are in every initiative we’ve carried out here – keep up the creative spirit!"

For six participants from North Rhine-Westphalia, the competition continues into the third round: as part of a week-long seminar featuring two theory exams, they have the chance to qualify for the national final. In this final round, the top four participants will be selected – they will represent Germany at the IChO in July 2026 in Tashkent, Uzbekistan.

About the International Chemistry Olympiad

The IChO is a global competition in which pupils from 85 countries currently take part. The aim is to spark interest and enthusiasm for chemistry through engaging questions. This year’s German selection process involved 2,438 pupils from across the country with an interest in chemistry. With the support of the state representatives Andrea Küsters and Dr Simon Scheeren, as well as many other dedicated teachers, they tackle both theoretical and practical chemistry problems over several rounds, until a German team is finally selected for the international round.