MUZZA Science Week 2025 in Zagreb welcomed 14,000+ visitors with 120 experiments and 180 workshops, bringing STEM closer to children, youth, and families through fun, hands-on learning.
Croatia’s educational system lags in adapting to modern technology and science, with curricula unchanged since the 19th century. MUZZA, a non-profit, launched pop-up STEM events under University of Zagreb auspices and Croatian Government support to immediately promote science among youth and families, while mobilizing stakeholders for a future Science Museum. Post-COVID, the 4th edition (most successful yet) engaged 14,000+ children in hands-on learning with 50+ PhD scientists, 70 professors/assistants, and 500 student volunteers. Over 30 partners supported it, teaching disciplines like robotics and sustainability, showing science as a driver of innovation, social progress, and respectful environmental stewardship.
Departing from traditional science fairs, we innovated with 120+ interactive experiments and 180 age-tailored workshops on robotics, neuroscience, AI, sustainable cities, and space exploration. Gamified zones, the MUZZAzov social-media challenge (with Siemens Energy), and cross-disciplinary blends (science + arts/sports) made science accessible and fun. This volunteer-driven model united academia, private leaders, and public institutions respectfully—honoring diverse expertise while inspiring Gen Z through immersive, tech-forward experiences. Unique value: AI-integrated tools for real-time engagement, emphasizing respect for people and planet via sustainability themes.