Perth kids to have their ‘ion’ science at BASF Kids’ Lab

• 700 Perth primary students will become scientists for a day at Curtin University from August 26-30
• Kids’ Lab program allows children to get hands-on with chemistry found in their daily life

Perth, Australia –  August 19, 2019 - Following National Science Week, leading chemical company BASF will give hundreds of children the opportunity to become scientists for a day in the annual Kids’ Lab program.
 

Locally organized in partnership with Curtin University, the program provides primary school aged children the opportunity to explore the wonders of chemistry in daily life.
 

Held over five days from August 26 - 30, the children, aged between 6 - 12 from primary schools across Perth, will carry out hands-on, safe and colorful experiments under the supervision of scientists from the University.

"It’s great to talk to kids about science but it’s even better to allow them to experience the magic of chemistry for themselves," said David Hawkins, Chairman and Managing Director, BASF Australia and New Zealand. "To attract young people to pursue a career in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) we need to show them how exciting science can be at a young age and expand the traditional view of what a scientist is."

"We are excited to be working with BASF for a sixth consecutive year and believe the program is a fantastic way to inspire the next generation of future scientists," said Professor Mark Buntine, Curtin University’s Dean of Science. "Through this fun and interactive program, students will discover the possibilities of a career in science are endless because science is such a big part of our daily lives."

About Curtin University
Curtin University is Western Australia’s largest university, with more than 56,000 students. Of these, about 26 per cent are international students, with half of these studying at the University’s offshore campuses. The University’s main campus is in Perth. Curtin also has a major regional campus in Kalgoorlie in addition to four global campuses in Malaysia, Singapore, Dubai and Mauritius.

The University has built a reputation around innovation and an entrepreneurial spirit, being at the forefront of many high-profile research projects in astronomy, biosciences, economics, mining and information technology. It is also recognised globally for its strong connections with industry, and for its commitment to preparing students for the jobs of the future. For further information, visit curtin.edu.au.

About BASF
At BASF, we create chemistry for a sustainable future. We combine economic success with environmental protection and social responsibility. The approximately 122,000 employees in the BASF Group work on contributing to the success of our customers in nearly all sectors and almost every country in the world. Our portfolio is organized into six segments: Chemicals, Materials, Industrial Solutions, Surface Technologies, Nutrition & Care and Agricultural Solutions. BASF generated sales of around €63 billion in 2018. BASF shares are traded on the stock exchange in Frankfurt (BAS) and as American Depositary Receipts (BASFY) in the U.S. Further information at www.basf.com.