BASF, in collaboration with the CSIR-Indian Institute of Chemical Technology (CSIR-IICT), Hyderabad, is organising the BASF Kids’ Lab from 26 to 31 October 2026. The initiative introduces schoolchildren to hands-on chemistry experiments while raising awareness about environmental sustainability and climate action. The Hyderabad edition is expected to engage 1,150 students from municipal schools, offering them an opportunity to explore science through interactive learning activities.
Hands-on Chemistry Learning for Schoolchildren
BASF Kids’ Lab is an interactive science education programme designed for children aged 8 to 12 years. Through practical experiments and engaging activities, the initiative encourages young learners to explore scientific concepts and understand the role of chemistry in everyday life. Furthermore, the programme introduces children to sustainability, environmental protection and climate action. It aims to develop scientific curiosity and demonstrate how simple everyday actions can contribute to a more sustainable future. Developed by BASF, a leading global chemical company, Kids’ Lab has reached children in more than 30 countries. Since its launch in India in 2004, the programme has inspired over 62,000 schoolchildren across the country.
BASF Expands Climate Education Through CSR Initiative
As part of its Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives in India, BASF relaunched Kids’ Lab in 2023 with a renewed focus on climate protection. Since then, the programme has reached students across several metropolitan cities, including Chennai, Navi Mumbai, Mangalore, Bengaluru and Delhi. It has also extended its reach to rural and tribal communities in Nashik district. Through age-appropriate experiments and interactive learning modules, the programme helps children understand environmental sustainability and the importance of individual contributions to climate action.
BASF and CSIR-IICT Emphasise Experiential Science Education
Kim Höffken, Managing Director, BASF Digital Solutions Private Limited, said children learn best through exploration, experimentation and discovery. He explained that BASF Kids’ Lab aims to create engaging learning experiences that encourage curiosity, critical thinking and a better understanding of how science addresses real-world challenges. By connecting chemistry with sustainability and climate action, the programme seeks to inspire the next generation of informed and responsible innovators. He also welcomed the collaboration with CSIR-IICT to bring the initiative to schoolchildren in Hyderabad. Dr. D. Srinivasa Reddy, Director, CSIR-IICT, appreciated BASF’s efforts to promote scientific curiosity and climate awareness through hands-on chemistry education. He highlighted the importance of such initiatives, particularly for government school students, in developing scientific thinking and environmental responsibility. He also emphasised the shared vision of CSIR’s Jigyasa programme and BASF in making science education accessible, engaging and meaningful for young learners. Additionally, he acknowledged the support of the Education Department, Government of Telangana, in identifying government schools and facilitating student participation in Hyderabad.
Students Explore Chemistry Through Practical Experiments
The programme has also received positive feedback from participating students. Gouthami, a student of Government High School, Peteri, shared her experience and highlighted the water purification experiment as her favourite activity. She appreciated the volunteers for explaining scientific concepts in a simple and engaging manner. She also expressed her intention to share the knowledge with her friends and family and apply the lessons on climate action in her daily life.
Inspiring the Next Generation Through Chemistry
BASF Kids’ Lab reflects the company’s commitment to advancing chemistry education and supporting communities through meaningful engagement initiatives. By combining practical science experiments with sustainability education, the programme encourages children to develop scientific curiosity, understand environmental challenges and adopt responsible practices. As per company press release, through its continued outreach, BASF aims to empower young learners to become responsible citizens and future champions of climate action.
