Future technologies—from robotics and artificial intelligence to 3D printing—play an essential role in the development of modern society. According to the European Commission, digital and STEM skills are fundamental for adapting to the labor market and for fostering innovation, being considered key priorities in European education. In this context, the Măgurele Science Park Association (MSP) actively supports students and teachers in discovering and understanding these technologies, transforming education into a practical experience connected to today’s reality.
International Collaboration and Dialogue for Future Education
The “Cezar Nicolau” Technological High School in Brănești has recently become a true European educational hub, hosting a series of activities within the Erasmus+ program and the Robo STEAM Academy project.
The events brought together teachers from Romania, Bulgaria, and Slovakia, facilitating a valuable exchange of experience and best practices in modern education. At the same time, the meetings created space for dialogue on the strategic directions of education, focusing on the integration of technology and the development of skills relevant for the future.
An important moment was the participation of Mrs. Cristina Petre-Ghiță, Deputy General School Inspector within the Ilfov County School Inspectorate, who contributed to discussions on the future of education and the implementation of innovative initiatives at the national level.
The “Ora de știut” initiative – education for a changing world
During the workshop “Work Packages: Robo STEAM Academy Erasmus+,” organized at the invitation of Mrs. Marinela Culea, the school’s principal, the evolution of the “Ora de știut” (The Hour to Know) program was presented—an educational initiative approved at the national level starting in 2024.
The platform dedicated to this program provides students with access to modern educational resources developed together with Digipedia, covering essential areas such as:
- curiosity and critical thinking
- environment and the planet
- space exploration
- future technologies
- global economic trends
School students are also encouraged to participate in the “Challenge of Minds” competition, which stimulates creativity and the application of knowledge in real-life contexts.
The Role of Măgurele Science Park in Promoting STEM Education
The Măgurele Science Park Association played a key role in these activities, contributing to the development of interactive and relevant educational experiences.
Through its programs, MSP facilitates:
- visits to research institutes
- regional 3D modeling and printing competitions
- robotics contests
- innovative educational initiatives
These efforts aim to bring students closer to science and technology and to develop the skills needed in a knowledge-based economy.
Practical learning: from theory to real applications
A highlight of the events was the practical session dedicated to 3D modeling and printing technologies, delivered by Laurențiu Dinu. The activity offered participants the opportunity to directly explore modern tools and technological processes, demonstrating the effectiveness of experiential learning.
This approach highlights the fact that today’s education must go beyond theoretical limits and become an interactive, collaborative process focused on real-world application.
A School connected to Europe and future technologies
Through its involvement in international projects and collaboration with partners such as the Măgurele Science Park Association, the “Cezar Nicolau” Technological High School strengthens its status as a modern educational institution.
Students benefit from real opportunities to learn robot programming, the use of 3D printers, and other emerging technologies, supported by dedicated teachers and an educational ecosystem oriented toward innovation.
Education as a driver of innovation
The initiatives presented demonstrate that education becomes truly relevant when it is connected to reality, technology, and international collaboration. Through the projects developed by the Măgurele Science Park Association, students are encouraged to explore, experiment, and deeply understand the world around them.
Access to technologies such as robotics or 3D printing does not only mean acquiring information, but also forming a mindset based on curiosity, courage, and the desire to discover.
“Nothing in life is to be feared, it is only to be understood. Now is the time to understand more, so that we may fear less.” – Marie Curie
This message reflects the essence of MSP’s efforts: bringing students closer to science and technology so that the unknown becomes an opportunity for learning, and the future—a space they can build with confidence.
