Getting a closer look at the latest science, having a talk with ingenious entrepreneurs and creators, or just enjoying a cup of coffee - citizens can now do all that at the TRIANGEL Open Space of Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT) at Kronenplatz in Karlsruhe. For over a year, science, society, and the economy have been coming together at the new center for innovation, startups, and transfer. It was now finally officially inaugurated after pandemic-induced delays. From Thursday, May 18th until Saturday, May 21st, the TRIANGEL Opening Week was filled with knowledge and vision, including keynote speeches, panel discussions, exhibitions, art, and cultural events.
"Being the Research University in the Helmholtz-Association, KIT creates and imparts knowledge for the society and the environment. The exchange with citizens, especially of Karlsruhe, is therefore of highest importance to us," KIT President Professor Holger Hanselka states. "The short distances resulting from our location in the heart of the city strengthen the exchange between KIT scientists, students, and startups and the citizens of Karlsruhe as well as our partners from economy and society."
Opening Week with Fascinating Scientific Information
During the opening week, the TIL:FESTIVAL, there was a lot to discover at TRIANGEL: Interactive science exhibits, panel discussions, and keynote speeches on topics like "Understanding and shaping the future." "#TIL is short for Today I Learned, referencing the impulse to learn and discover new things, to broaden your horizon. This spirit of discovery represents KIT as a space for dialog with society," explains Professor Thomas Hirth, KIT Vice-President for Transfer and International Affairs.
At TRIANGEL, exhibitions allow anyone to experience scientific topics, and teams of innovators and startups can exchange direct feedback with citizens on their ideas and prototypes. Additionally, the Open Space offers room for workshops, talks, lectures, panel discussions, and even cabaret. A café creates space to network and develop innovative ideas in a relaxing environment - or to simply enjoy a drink.
In April 2022, TRIANGEL Open Space was awarded with the Hochschulperle by Stifterverband, a joint initiative by companies and foundations promoting science and education that presents this award to "future-oriented learning spaces."
