Technology, science and art under one roof of BUT. Gaudeamus Brno welcomed thousands of high school students

Pavilion V at the Brno Exhibition Centre filled with thousands of high school students from November 19 to 22, who came to explore their study options and decide on their path after graduation. Brno University of Technology (BUT) presented itself at Gaudeamus with a new exposition, attracting not only those interested in technical studies but also in natural sciences, economics, and arts programs.

More than 30 thousand high school students visited the Gaudeamus in Brno. | Autor: Václav Koníček

This year's Gaudeamus Brno boasted a record attendance, with more than 30,000 visitors exploring the offerings of universities. What the fair offered and highlights from the BUT exhibit

The BUT stand showcased, in addition to educational information, successful projects and works of selected students and stories illustrating their university journey. To provide visitors with the most authentic idea of studying and life at BUT, the faculties and university institutes were represented by the students themselves. "I was most impressed by the extensive practical experience that BUT offers," highlighted visitor of the Brno Gaudeamus.

BUT was represented by students from faculties and units. | Autor: Václav Koníček

For the first time, this year’s exhibit also included a university-wide presentation, where prospective students learned about studying abroad opportunities and the support activities offered by the university’s Alfons Center. All key information and dates were also shared daily during presentations for students and teachers.

In addition to the information stands, BUT prepared a diverse accompanying program, where high schoolers could explore projects created at the university. Many exhibits were interactive, allowing participants to, for example, ride a formula car, control a robotic arm, or navigate an obstacle course with special goggles simulating the effects of alcohol and drugs. A robotic bartender mixing drinks for visitors was also a big hit.

Visitors enjoyed the activities in the accompanying programme. | Autor: Václav Koníček

BUT as an open book

Thanks to the layout of new exhibit, which features minimalist aesthetics, structural variability, and sustainable materials, communication between prospective students and current BUT students was smooth, and groups could interact without disturbing one another. Although each faculty had its own designated area to engage with high schoolers, the entire exhibit was interconnected and easily navigable, reflecting the essence of the university as an open yet cohesive entity.

The new exhibition presents BUT as an open book. | Autor: Václav Koníček

The exhibit design was created by architect Svatopluk Sládeček from BUT’s Faculty of Architecture. The graphic elements, including the student stories featured in the recruitment campaign, were completed by Filip Dědic, who works at both the Faculty of Architecture and the Faculty of Fine Arts at BUT. "We wanted to showcase what it means to be an engineer and work at a technical university. The essence of technology lies in creative activity focused on relationships between people and the relationship between humans and nature," explained Sládeček.

Women belong in science

The BUT exposition at the fair was lively and attracted great interest. “Although we are primarily perceived as a technical university, many female students visited our stand, which makes us very happy, and we hope the number of women in science and technology will continue to grow,” said BUT coordinator Helena Sadílková after the event.