DTU is taking part in this year's Folkemødet on Bornholm with a strong lineup of prominent debaters, ready to engage in discussions ranging from democratic responsibility and European technological sovereignty to education, education policy, defense research, and ethics. The participation takes place alongside experts, politicians, and other stakeholders in the Tech Tent (B2) on Strandvejen in Allinge.
Among the topics on the agenda is how to ensure that Denmark develops the right competencies for the future labour market, and how to balance democratic responsibility with decisive action in a time of rapid technological change. Senior Vice President Carsten Orth Gaarn-Larsen will take part in the opening debate, which will explore whether future technologies belong to science fiction or reality.
On a lighter note, PhD student Jacob Christian Loft from DTU Physics will compete in a freestyle rap contest, performing alongside a professional rapper while communicating his research on high-resolution laser-based microscopy.
"Folkemødet is an important platform for open democratic debate, and for DTU it is essential to contribute knowledge and nuance. Our researchers bring technological and scientific perspectives into some of today's major societal challenges—from security and skills development to the responsible use of technology in an increasingly complex world," says DTU President Anders O. Bjarklev.
Wind car, beer brewing, and robots
As always, the Tech Tent offers more than debates and discussions. This year, visitors can get up close to DTU's Aeolus Wind Car and learn how wind turbines, vehicles, and other technologies harness kinetic wind energy through advanced aerodynamics.
There will also be opportunities to learn about the development of agricultural robots that can monitor and manage crop growth, and to experience live beer brewing with DTU Brewery, where insights into enzymes, process optimization, and energy-efficient production will be shared.
The Tech Tent will start each day with communal singing. As tradition dictates, the opening evening will conclude with a major celebration, where acting Minister for the Environment Magnus Heunicke will take the DJ booth alongside guest DJs.
The Tech Tent is organized by DTU, the University of Southern Denmark, Aalborg University, Aarhus University, the Danish Society of Engineers (IDA), and Engineer the Future.
