For several years, the Technasium Foundation and Erasmus MC have worked together to organize Viruskenner, an educational program that teaches students about virus prevention. The program’s real impact is now supported by recent research conducted by Louiza de Rooij, who completed her internship with Viruskenner.
Her evaluation highlights a win-win outcome: the program contributes to Erasmus MC’s public health objectives while also supporting the talent development of Technasium students.
🔹 Students reported feeling more aware of and better informed about viruses and prevention methods.
🔹 There was a statistically significant improvement in students’ attitudes toward virus prevention, and they felt better prepared for future pandemics.
🔹 The program also strengthens key skills such as conducting research, collaborating, speaking English, and presenting.
The recommendations from Louiza’s research will be incorporated into the next edition of the program to make it even more effective.
Viruskenner was originally launched as an initiative by Eric C.M. van Gorp and Wilco Zwennis. During the program, second-year Technasium students work on a real-world, topical case. Following a masterclass led by experts, they investigate how viruses work and develop creative solutions to help prevent their spread. The program concludes with an international final, where students present their ideas.
The final of the next edition of Viruskenner is scheduled for 7 April 2027 in Rotterdam. We can’t wait to see the innovative solutions our next generation of problem-solvers will come up with!
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