Seeds of Science – European Premiere

When curiosity grows against the odds

On Tuesday, 21 July 2026, the documentary Seeds of Science celebrates its European premiere at the Astra Theater in Essen.

The film follows young girls who are passionate about science, while living in places where access to education, knowledge, and even clean drinking water cannot be taken for granted.

It also highlights the work of committed women who are helping challenge expectations, expand opportunities, and create new paths for the next generation.

Official Event Flyer:

This is more than a film screening.

It is a story about who gets access to science, who is encouraged to continue, and what can change when education becomes possible.

After the screening, the themes of the documentary will continue through a panel discussion on education, gender equality, access to basic resources, and the realities shown in the film.

What to expect:

The European premiere of Seeds of Science
A documentary about girls, science, education, and social expectations
Stories from remote regions where access to knowledge and clean water remains limited
A panel discussion following the screening
Perspectives from education, sociology, microbiology, chemistry, and international cooperation
Space for questions and exchange with the audience

Panel Discussion:

Following the screening, the audience is invited to join a discussion with:

H.E. Raïssa Malu
Minister of State, Minister of National Education and New Citizenship of the Democratic Republic of the Congo
Dr. Lisa Voskuhl
Junior Research Group Leader “Microbiology of Ecotones”, University of Duisburg-Essen
Priv. Doz. Stéphane Kenmoe
Group Leader “Condensed Matter Chemistry and Physics”, University of Duisburg-Essen
Prof. Karen Shire
Vice Rector for University Culture, Diversity and International Relations and Professor of Comparative Sociology, University of Duisburg-Essen
Dr. Luc Allemand
Coordinator of the International Secretariat of the Earth-Humanity Coalition

The discussion will explore the film’s central themes and open space for questions, reflection, and exchange with the audience.

Why this event matters

Science is often discussed as if talent alone determines who gets to participate.

But access to education, safety, resources, encouragement, and time can decide whether curiosity is allowed to grow at all.

Seeds of Science brings those realities into view through the daily lives of young people whose interest in science exists alongside structural barriers.

You do not need to study science to connect with this film. It is equally relevant to anyone interested in education, gender equality, international development, water, sustainability, sociology, or social change.