The BarCamp provided an opportunity to network and exchange ideas on topics such as social change, sustainability, and social, ecological, and economic transformation processes, as well as historical-political education as a cross-curricular task in schools. To this end, Assistant Professor Kenner established collaborations with partners from the university, the school system, and civic institutions, and secured funding from the German Federal Environmental Foundation (DBU).
In his laudatory speech, Professor Dr. Gregor Lang-Wojtasik emphasized that education can make a comprehensive contribution to the democratic shaping of our society. In a world characterized by a societal “polycrisis,” where attempts are made to “shift the discourse to the far right,” and where individuals are defamed on the basis of various characteristics, Steve Kenner has set a clear course for democracy education and Education for Sustainable Development (ESD). Through the BarCamp, he helped make the social promise of participation and “education for all” a reality.
“Your topic really captures the spirit of the times,” praised Eberhard Haug, Head of Retail Banking at Kreissparkasse Ravensburg, who then presented the award to Steve Kenner. With this teaching award, the Kreissparkasse aims to contribute to the common good by promoting education. Steve Kenner has succeeded in bringing together numerous young people who have engaged in political education at the BarCamp, Haug noted.
Steve Kenner thanked everyone who made the BarCamp possible. His goal, he said, had been to open the university to the outside world and create a space for empowerment. Especially in times of authoritarian tendencies, it is important “not to lose sight of the democratic mission of education,” Kenner emphasized.
What is the “Society in Transition” BarCamp?
BarCamp is a unique event format with no predetermined agenda. The events focus on democracy education and education for sustainable development (ESD) and begin with a brief academic overview of these cross-functional tasks. Afterward, all participants are invited to present their own projects, initiatives, and materials, lead discussion groups, or offer workshops. The program is then determined in the morning based on the offerings and interests of the participants.
-------------------
Text: Arne Geertz
Photo: Svenja Duncker
Impressions from the BarCamp 2025
