Please note that the English version of this text has been prepared with the assistance of AI, and in some instances, it may not have been subsequently reviewed or edited by the authors.
On August 12, the youth opportunities festival “KOPUMS 2026” took place in Rēzekne, gathering young people, educational institutions, organizations, and state institutions from all over Latvia, offering wide opportunities to learn more about education, careers, volunteering, and participation. At the “BioPhoT” information stand, young people had the opportunity to learn about innovation projects implemented by researchers.
“At the ”BioPhoT” stand, young people were able to learn about several research projects, including one from the Latvia University of Life Sciences and Technologies “Quote“POLYCLAY-UV”, within the framework of which a multifunctional clay and polyphenol composite material is being developed. In the future, it could be used as a naturally derived UV filter in sun protection products. Coffee grounds are also used in the development of the material, which is why the festival was also represented by “KUUP coffee roastery, who treated the event attendees to delicious coffee drinks.
At the festival, researchers from the University of Latvia also presented their projects in person, representing the project “Quote“ImmoPREN”, which investigates immobilized polyprenols as slow-release adaptogens with immunostimulatory activity. In turn, the project “Quote“TEPOWER” Flexible thermoelectric generators for self-powered microelectronics and sensors are being developed within the framework.
Participation in the festival was a great opportunity to start a conversation with young people about science, technology, and innovation, as well as to showcase concrete examples of how researchers' ideas and work translate into new, socially significant solutions.
Thanks to the organizers, researchers, and all visitors of “KOPUMS 2026” for your interest, conversations, and inspiration!
Photo: Toms Norde
