CurioCities: circular futures explored in Twente

Students from various disciplines worked on assignments in the public space, in an interdisciplinary way. Students also visited showcases by UT experts, made working visits to regional companies, and participated in a street art tour and a historical tour in Enschede's city center. On the final day, the teams presented their designs for circular applications in public spaces.

"CurioCities gave students the tools to look critically at the future and bring their ideas to life, using the Twente region," states organiser Jamila Blokzijl of DesignLab. With CurioCities, the UT responded to a demand for a new Summer School. "We previously had CuriousU, which was a real festival where students stayed on campus. When that ended, there was still a need for educational programmes during the summer. The concept now focuses more on a city trip, addressing a social challenge both within and outside the academic world."

Even without the festival atmosphere, CurioCities can be considered a success. The intensive collaboration between students, researchers, and local partners led to creative circular concepts. Participants returned with new skills, insights, and a certificate. Positive feedback from students and regional partners proves that CurioCities is educational, connecting, and impactful.

This edition of CurioCities (Futures Unlocked*) served as a pilot. The diversity of academic backgrounds, as well as the collaboration with various educational institutions and companies, can be considered a strength of the concept. The University of Twente is exploring how CurioCities can be structurally embedded in the future, together with regional and international partners.

Below is a brief impression of the fun and educational vibe of CurioCities. More photos can be found on the CurioCities website and on Instagram.
More details about the programme can be found in the travellers' essentials booklet.