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Lab4U’s 2024 Impact

A Year of Transformation for the Future of STEM
and Vocational Technical Education

​​At Lab4U, we are proud to support students across Latin America on their journey to becoming the talent that will lead the STEM workforce. This year, thanks to our committed partners who connected us with diverse communities across Latin America, we impacted the lives of more than 10,000 students and 127 teachers in more than 40 schools across Chile, Colombia, and Mexico.

This year was a milestone for us, reaffirming our commitment to high school STEM and vocational education (or polytechnical education). We know that 75% of future jobs will be related to these fields, and technical and vocational education is key to preparing for that future. That’s why we work hand in hand with educational communities and key partners to transform the way we teach and learn science, providing better opportunities for students’ professional development. 

We are committed to redefining vocational and technical education through innovative initiatives with digital AI tools like the AI STEM Resource Generator, where we help educators create contextualized educational materials that link learning with the professional world and tailor it to the characteristics of each field of study. This approach makes learning more relevant and exciting by connecting science with the passions and realities of each student. 

In a world where demand continues to grow for STEM professionals and technical degrees, it is an honor to be part of a movement that fosters the development of these essential skills that will undoubtedly impact our communities’ economic growth.

This year, we also participated in projects, science fairs, and educational programs that are changing how we understand education. Keep reading to learn more about the projects that are making a difference.

Thank you for joining us on this journey! 🫶

Students and Communities that Inspire Us

AI Revolutionizes STEM Learning at Lab4U!

In 2024, Lab4U took a quantum leap in educational innovation, developing two products that transform the STEM learning experience through AI.

We introduced the STEM AI Planner which is available on the Lab4U Portal. It’s a tool that revolutionizes learning management by optimizing the time teachers spend generating class plans and assessments from hours to just minutes.

We also incorporated TutorAI into the Lab4U App: a STEM learning virtual assistant available 24/7, TutorAI offers explanations tailored to each student’s needs, answering questions, and adapting content to individual learning speeds to enhance the learning process.

These upgrades strengthen our commitment to democratizing science education by using innovative technologies to make science learning more accessible, dynamic, and inclusive. 

Educational innovation knows no limits when we collaborate. The more people, companies, institutions, and communities invest in the mission to transform STEM education, the brighter our future will be.

En la imagen se muestra la interfaz del planificador IA de Lab4U lanzado ese 2024
Pablo Pisani
Pablo Pisani

Gerente de Asuntos Corporativos de Nitratos Yodo, SQM

‘"Estamos muy contentos con los resultados 2023 del Programa NorTEduca que ejecuta Lab4U, no solo por el compromiso de sus profesionales y calidad del trabajo pedagógico que realizan en territorios importantes para nosotros, sino que también porque a través de SQM Labs están acercando la industria a las nuevas generaciones y proyectando el futuro de la innovación y desarrollo tecnológico, desde el Norte de Chile al mundo".

Elizableth Cameron
Escondida BHP Lab4U
Elizabeth Cameron

Especialista de Asuntos Corporativos, Escondida | BHP

"A través del programa 'STEM+Género', aspiramos a que más estudiantes en Antofagasta amplíen sus horizontes vocacionales y vean la ciencia, la tecnología, la ingeniería y las matemáticas como espacios para el desarrollo profesional y personal. Como empresa, impulsamos el desarrollo de iniciativas que promueven la inclusión de niñas y mujeres en diversos ámbitos sociales, con un enfoque en construir comunidades que sean inclusivas, diversas y respetuosas".

Montserrat Palomar
Camanchaca Lab4U
Montserrat Palomar

Montserrat Palomar, Gerenta de Sostenibilidad y Relacionamiento Comunitario de Enel Chile

“Este año de colaboración que hemos tenido con Lab4U ha sido muy relevante para continuar impactando en la comunidad por medio de la educación y, sobre todo, promoviendo la participación de las mujeres en el mundo energético. Es emocionante ver cómo con la innovación por medio de un celular, al que casi todos lxs estudiantes tienen acceso, podemos inspirar a nuevas generaciones a continuar perfeccionándose y ejercer profesiones STEM en el futuro”.

Sergio Giacaman
Camanchaca Lab4U
Sergio Giacaman

Gerente de Sostenibilidad Social, Camanchaca

"Estamos muy comprometidos con la educación y estamos invirtiendo firmemente en potenciar los talentos de lxs estudiantes en las comunidades donde se encuentran nuestras plantas de producción. Iniciativas como Lab4Sea nos ayudan a desarrollar soluciones conjuntas para las externalidades generadas por la industria, mejorando nuestro desempeño ambiental y formando a futuros profesionales en el campo de la ciencia".

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Building a Global Community

PADF BOEING

Expanding the STEM Americas Program to Chile with Boeing and PADF 🇨🇱 🇲🇽

After three years, the STEM Americas Program expanded its reach from Mexico to Chile, strengthening the alliance between Boeing, PADF, and Lab4U. Together, we continue to inspire students and teachers across Latin America, creating new opportunities in science and technology with a focus on the aerospace industry.

BRILLAS COLOMBIA

Strengthening Science Education in Villavicencio and Pachaquiaro, Colombia 🇨🇴

In 2024, Lab4U consolidated its impact for the third consecutive year in Villavicencio and Pachaquiaro, benefiting more than 200 students in Colombia. The program enhanced scientific skills and promoted practical, relevant learning thanks to the partnership with Fundación Brillas.

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Listening to Our Partners’ Voices

Our students and teachers are at the heart of our work, and our partners are the driving force of our mission through their commitment to STEM Education. Here are some highlights:

Julio Cuadra
Julio Cuadra

Corporate Affairs Manager of Southern Zone, ENGIE

At ENGIE, we are committed to contributing to the communities where we operate. In Chiloé, together with Lab4U, we have strengthened STEM education at the Bicentennial High School of Dalcahue. This two-year collaboration has delivered positive results, bringing energy transformation closer to students and educators while enhancing skills relevant to today's and tomorrow's job market.

We are proud to promote science, innovation, and technology while fostering female talent. ENGIE professionals have shared their experiences with students, highlighting the role of women in our industry. We are accelerating the transition to a carbon-neutral economy, creating a positive impact on society.

Ingrid Oyarzun
Escondida BHP Lab4U
Ingrid Oyarzún

Director of Research and Innovation at Eramet

The EducaSTEM Atacama program is an initiative developed by Eramet through a strategic partnership with Lab4U, aimed at inspiring and engaging students from Manuel Magalhaes High School to playfully learn about science and technology. With initiatives like this, Eramet demonstrates its commitment to these communities, with which we want to be a strategic partner and provide tangible contributions to their regional development.

Javier Silva
Camanchaca Lab4U
Javier Silva

Sustainability and Community Relations Manager, Salar

In 2024, we had the privilege and good fortune of receiving the support and dedication of the Lab4U team in Toconao! This remote community needed opportunities to learn and connect with science. The impact has been incredible! Young people have engaged with and grown closer to the scientific world, leading to a significant impact in the region. Thank you so much!

Leda Romero
Camanchaca Lab4U
Leda Romero

Strategic Communication | Sustainability | Corporate Affairs at MSD

The collaboration between MSD Chile and Lab4U has been an enriching experience of learning and innovation, both for us as a company and for the 200 students and teachers from the Rancagua Bicentennial Technical High School. Lab4U inspired and challenged us to think outside the box, resulting in a Branded Lab designed to help students better understand the role of immunization in healthcare. Together, we brought our purpose of protecting and saving lives to the educational community.

Pablo Pisani
Pablo Pisani

Corporate Affairs Manager of Nitrates and Iodine, SQM

Our purpose is to develop unique skills that transform resources into life and progress. Through the NorTEduca program implemented by Lab4U, we are cultivating the skills today's students will need for the world’s challenges in the upcoming decades. I want to highlight the commitment of Lab4U’s professionals and the work they do in communities that are significant to SQM Lodine. Together, we have developed the SQM Labs, bringing our industry closer to young people, who we hope will become the future professionals
and protagonists of the country we envision.

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Connecting Corporations to their Communities

Lab4Sea - Camanchaca

Lab4Sea: Camanchaca and the Fishing Industry

The Lab4Sea program, a collaboration between Camanchaca and Lab4U since 2023, transforms STEM education and connects students with the fishing industry, which is key for local development. The program supported four schools in southern Chile, impacting more than 400 students and eight teachers.

Colegio Alberto Blest Gana - ya son 7 años!

Alberto Blest Gana School - Seven Years Strong!

Since 2018 Lab4U and the Alberto Blest Gana School have worked together to transform science teaching. In 2024, the program involved six teachers and over 800 students, who carried out more than 60 experiments. This program continues to demonstrate a positive impact in scientific skill development and continues to foster a growing interest in STEM careers.

Collahuasi

Collahuasi: Skills for the Mining Industry

In 2024, we launched the “STEM Education” program at the John Paul II Bicentennial Mining High School, thanks to a collaboration between Lab4U and Collahuasi. The program aims to transform science teaching with technological tools that empower teachers and students, as well as open doors to future opportunities in science, technology, and the mining industry.

ENAP

ENAP: Linking the Oil Industry to STEM Education

The alliance between ENAP and Lab4U strengthens STEM education by fostering critical skills and promoting family support in student learning. This year, the program comprised five schools, 2,024 students, and 19 teachers who dared to innovate with technology and new learning methodologies in their classrooms.

Enel

Enel, Energy, and STEM: Opportunities for the Energy Industry

The Enel program at the Don Orione High School impacted 450 students, ranging in age from the seventh grade to the second year of high school. Through technical experiences and talks, it strengthened STEM learning, promoted gender equality, empowered youth, and increased access to new job opportunities in the energy industry.

Engie

ENGIE - From Chiloé to the World

The “STEM Education” program at Dalcahue Bicentennial High School, in the south of Chile, celebrated its second year with the support of ENGIE and Lab4U. The program promoted inclusion and encouraged students to explore science through gender equality bootcamps and the active participation of women role models at ENGIE.

Eramet

EducaSTEM with Eramet: A New Educational Community!

In 2024, we launched the EducaSTEM Atacama program, driven by Eramet and Lab4U, to transform science education at Manuel Magalhaes High School in Diego de Almagro. We’re excited to spark interest in STEM careers and strengthen the role of teachers in a new Atacama community with innovative tools.

STEM+Género - Escondida | BHP

STEM+Género Program with Escondida | BHP

In partnership with Escondida | BHP, we held the third edition of the STEM+Género Program, promoting gender equality in STEM and the mining industry. Through various activities, over 2,000 students and seven teachers from five schools in Antofagasta explored science and possible opportunities for the future workforce
in the mining industry.

INACAP

INACAP: Opportunities in Vocational Education

Lab4U and INACAP joined forces for the first time to transform vocational and technical education in Chile. With AI as our main ally, we created contextualized educational materials based on the needs of each career, connecting science with professional context to make learning more relevant and motivating.

MSD

STEM with MSD: Inspiring Tomorrow's Women Scientists

More than 200 nursing technician students from the Rancagua Bicentennial Technical High School developed their STEM skills through a partnership with the pharmaceutical company MSD, which introduced advanced technologies and inclusive activities to inspire young women to pursue scientific careers.

MolymetNos

MolymetNos: Fostering Curiosity and Scientific Talent

The “A Lab in Your Pocket” program celebrated its second year at the Padre Alberto Hurtado Educational Center in Santiago. Thanks to a collaboration between MolymetNos and Lab4U, students were connected with the molybdenum and rhenium industry to foster their curiosity and prepare them for a future working with science and technology.

Pfizer

Health Without Resistance Program with Pfizer

Lab4U and Pfizer launched the “Health Without Resistance” program at the Almendral High School in Santiago to educate students on antimicrobial resistance (AMR) and other healthcare-related topics.

SQM Litio

SQM Lithium: Developing Scientific Talent in the North

Lab4U and SQM Litio are transforming education and sparking interest in STEM through the use of accessible technology: we provided educational content about the lithium industry to enhance job expectations and promote scientific careers in northern Chile.

SQM Yodo Nutrición Vegetal

NorTEduca Program with SQM Iodine

The NorTEduca program has spent four years transforming STEM education in northern Chile, benefiting over 6,200 students and 76 teachers in Tarapacá and Antofagasta. In collaboration with SQM Iodine, the program prepares young people for a future filled with opportunities in STEM and the mining industry.

PADF BOEING

Expanding the STEM Americas Program to Chile with Boeing and PADF 🇨🇱 🇲🇽

After three years, the STEM Americas Program expanded its reach from Mexico to Chile, strengthening the alliance between Boeing, PADF and Lab4U. Together, we continue to inspire students and teachers across Latin America, creating new opportunities in science and technology with a focus on the aerospace industry.

BRILLAS COLOMBIA

Strengthening Science Education in Villavicencio and Pachaquiaro, Colombia 🇨🇴

In 2024, Lab4U consolidated its impact for the third consecutive year in Villavicencio and Pachaquiaro, benefiting more than 200 students in Colombia. The program enhanced scientific skills and promoted practical, relevant learning thanks to our partnership with Fundación Brillas.

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Educational Leaders: Our Inspiration

It is the unwavering commitment and support of our teachers that makes Lab4U’s impact possible. We extend our sincerest thanks to them for their valuable collaboration. They are the true agents of change, revolutionizing the teaching and learning of science in the classroom.

Vanessa Maulen
Camanchaca Lab4U
Vanessa Maulen

INACAP Puente Alto Campus

The inclusion of the Lab4U platform in our mechanical physics course allowed us to train teachers in the use of technological tools that enhance laboratory activities and promote INACAP’s “learning by doing” approach.

Daniel Rivera
Escondida BHP Lab4U
Daniel Rivera

The Antofagasta Baptist College, STEM+Género Program

Working with Lab4U in 2024 was an innovative experience, allowing students to develop scientific skills not only through the application of inquiry-based methodologies but also through the use of technological tools that enrich classroom practice.

Evelyn Cortéz
Camanchaca Lab4U
Evelyn Cortéz

Rancagua Bicentennial Technical High School, STEM Education Program with MSD

Working with Lab4U aligns with our vocational high school’s STEM approach, strengthening technological competencies and promoting a more proactive role in learning that is linked to real-life situations. This way, students are better prepared to face the demands of their professional internships and future careers.

Robinson Herrera
Escondida BHP Lab4U
Robinson Herrera

Mayor Sergio González G. High School, NorTEduca Program

With over four years of partnering with Lab4U, we’ve enjoyed a great opportunity to better motivate first-year students as they learn basic education content that is necessary for them to enter specialized fields like physics, chemistry, and biology.

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Teaming up to Promote Vocational Education

Throughout 2024, Lab4U reaffirmed its commitment to educational transformation and sustainability. To promote vocational and technical education, we teamed up with various industry stakeholders to bring Artificial Intelligence and sustainability together. Working alongside corporations, schools, and Edtech companies, our aim is to strengthen technical education, necessary to close today’s skills gap. Lab4U coordinated and participated in two important panels, Vocational Talent for the STEM Industries and Sunset Edtech, both of which gathered key players working towards an inclusive and sustainable future!

Look How We Shine!
Lab4U in the Press

Is this really happening? Our CEO, Komal Dadlani, once again took center stage in the media, showcasing the story and impact of Lab4U. She was featured in the national documentary “10 Chilean Women Who Are Changing the World” and recognized by Forbes Chile as one of the most powerful women in STEM education. Komal also earned a spot in the Bloomberg ranking as one of five Chilean women recognized for her impact on innovation and STEM education. As an entrepreneur who has impacted thousands of students since 2013, she proudly represented the entrepreneurial ecosystem before National President Boric, emphasizing the importance of STEM education for the workforce of the future.
Keep reading for all the details!

Komal Dadlani Featured on 10 Chilean Women Who Are Changing the World on TVN

Komal Dadlani is one of the protagonists of TVN’s documentary series 10 Chilean Women Who Are Changing the World, which highlights women born in Chile who are making a mark internationally.

Lab4U and MSD Empowering Young Women to Dream of Becoming Scientists in Chile

Only 19.7% of those enrolled in the first year of STEM careers in Chile are women. In this environment, Lab4U and MSD developed a project that used innovative technology and hands-on experiments to inspire more students to dream of becoming great scientists.

Komal Dadlani, CEO of Lab4U, Among the 500 Most Influential People in Latin America 2024

Komal Dadlani, CEO and co-founder of Lab4U, was featured in Los 500 de América Latina by Bloomberg in 2024 as one of five Chilean women recognized for her impact on innovation and STEM education.

Komal Dadlani, Co-founder and CEO of Lab4U, represented entrepreneurs before President Boric during EtM Day

The co-founder and CEO of Lab4U was the one to represent the entrepreneurial community at the annual Emprende tu Mente meeting, where she emphasized the importance of STEM education as a fundamental tool for shaping the future workforce of children and youth.

SQM Iodine and Lab4U Successfully Conclude 4th Edition of the NorTEduca Program

SQM Iodine and Lab4U wrapped up the fourth edition of the NorTEduca program, benefiting over 6,200 students and 76 teachers in the Tarapacá and Antofagasta regions. This program promotes STEM skills, preparing students for a future workforce where, according to the UN, 75% of jobs will be in these areas by 2050.

Komal Dadlani Once Again Recognized by Forbes Chile as One of the Most Powerful Chilean Women for Her Work in STEM Education

Komal Dadlani, CEO and co-founder of Lab4U, was recognized by Forbes Chile as one of the 50 most powerful women in the country for her transformative work in STEM education and for providing children and young adults with interactive access to science.

What’s coming at Lab4U?

Vocational and Technical Education + AI to build the future! More news is coming soon; in case you want a sneak peek, here is an article published by Diario Financiero (In Spanish)

IA Lab4U

Now, for the Grand Finale, Meet Our Dream Team!

We are a diverse, inclusive, and multicultural team that shares an exciting mission. Together, we want to ignite a movement of curious minds and critical thinkers who are ready to transform science learning and teaching to create new opportunities for all Latin American students and teachers.

The best part? You are at the heart of this adventure! Thank you for joining us on this journey full of purpose and possibilities. 🌟

Lab4U and INACAP join forces for the first time to transform Vocational and Technical Education in Chile

According to a study conducted by the National Commission for Evaluation and Productivity on “STEM Skills Training in Chile” STEM education faces challenges, especially in the vocational and technical modality. Unlike their peers in standard high school education, technical students have limited access to advanced courses in science and mathematics, restricting their preparation in key areas for the future. However, it is precisely in technical education where transformative potential exists, both for students and for various industries in the country. Currently, more than 40% of technical students choose STEM specialties, such as mining, electricity, and technology. However, a gender disparity persists, with over 80% of students in these fields being male. Additionally, while 46% of male graduates in STEM-Technical programs continue their studies in STEM careers, only 23% of females do. This gap not only affects access to higher education but also professional and salary opportunities, limiting the potential of technical education as a driver of development.

This is why Lab4U is proud of the new partnership we have formed with INACAP to develop and implement various initiatives that are redefining technical education. With innovative tools like the AI Resource Generator, we are helping teachers create contextualized educational materials that link learning to the professional world. With Artificial Intelligence as our main ally, we create educational materials tailored to different subjects and majors where they are taught.

This approach recognizes that sciences come to life when connected to the reality of each specialty. It is not the same to study rotational dynamics if you dream of building robots in Automation and Robotics Engineering, than studying rotational dynamics if you imagine exploring the Earth in Mining Engineering. Adapting courses common to different majors to each of these passions and contexts makes it more meaningful and exciting for each student.

In this first stage, the “STEM+Technical Innovation with AI at INACAP” program has been developed in 7 INACAP campuses accross Chile. A total of 249 students and 7 teachers from the Mining Technician, Industrial Maintenance Engineering, Mining Engineering, Industrial Maintenance Technician, and Automation and Robotics Engineering majors actively participated through practical activities, strengthening their technical skills and adaptability to real industry scenarios.

With initiatives like these, we want to change the future for young people in Chile. Technical education is not just an option, but a gateway to a future full of opportunities, where students can be the protagonists of a positive change in key areas for the growth and development of the country.

This is just the beginning of an educational revolution!

Fundación Brillas and Lab4U continue their educational impact in Colombia during 2024

This year, Fundación Brillas and Lab4U continued, for the second year, fulfilling their educational mission in the communities of Villavicencio and Pachaquiaro, Colombia, impacting more than 200 students from two rural schools.

The Experiment in Your School program places technology at the center of learning, using innovative tools to teach science in a practical and engaging way. By integrating educational technologies, Lab4U provides students with the opportunity to explore scientific concepts through dynamic experiences that connect physics, biology, and other sciences with their daily lives. This approach not only reinforces their understanding but also sparks real curiosity, encouraging them to delve deeper into the world of science and imagine a future full of new academic and professional possibilities.

The impact of this program goes beyond teaching. With this effort, we are helping close educational gaps by bringing accessible, relevant, and technology-backed scientific education to young communities. We don’t just teach science: we cultivate values such as critical thinking and curiosity, as well as essential digital skills for the future workforce.

At Lab4U, alongside Fundación Brillas, we remain committed to extending the impact, ensuring that more young people in Colombia have access to transformative educational experiences in STEM, thereby improving their professional development prospects in the context of a growing demand of STEM-related jobs

Promoting the Future of STEM Education in Dalcahue

In 2024, we brought to life what began as a pilot program in 2023. The “STEM Education” program in Dalcahue, in the beautiful southern Los Lagos region, became a reality thanks to our partnership with ENGIE, allowing us to bring innovative technological tools to transform science classes, empower teachers, and motivate students to explore the STEM world in a dynamic, fun, and meaningful way.

With this program, ENGIE and Lab4U’s commitment to STEM education goes beyond teaching science: we aim to create an inclusive space where all students, regardless of gender, can feel like active participants in this world. We know that knowledge is power, and we are here to break barriers, shatter stereotypes, and ensure that everyone has access to the same opportunities.

With this goal in mind, during the year, we held two powerful gender-focused STEM Bootcamps, designed to inspire both teachers and students, encouraging them to approach science with a fresh and transformative perspective on how to incorporate diverse strategies that allow for innovative, inclusive, and equitable practices in the classroom, promoting collaborative learning and the development of key future skills in the STEM field.

With the support of ENGIE, we have been able to bring this program to Dalcahue, planting the seeds of a more diverse future filled with opportunities in the scientific field. We are proud to see how this program is not only fostering an interest in science but is also preparing students to be part of the future workforce in a vital industry for Chile, such as the energy sector. Furthermore, it has allowed us to strengthen the work of the teaching team through training and support, leaving a long-lasting impact and capacity within the communities, to continue advancing in the future of STEM education.

Together, we will keep opening paths: this is just the beginning!

Energizing the Future of STEM Education: Enel at the Don Orione School

In 2024, the Enel at the Don Orione School program made a significant impact on 450 students from 7th to 11th grade in the community of Quintero, marking its second year with a positive and transformative effect. Thanks to the joint efforts of teachers and students, the program has created a space where scientific learning has not only been enriched but has also empowered young students to understand and analyze the world from a scientific perspective, with a focus on the energy industry.

In addition to technical experiences, students participated in gender equality talks, which featured Claudia Escalera, Community Relations Manager at ENEL, as a female role model in the industry. This added a valuable dimension of inclusion and diversity to the program.

Furthermore, ENEL experiments like “Light, Camera, and Saving” and “Efficient Race” allowed students to explore the energy industry through practical experiments, discovering concepts like how a basic circuit works and the principles of the law of conservation of energy.

With a firm belief that scientific education is essential for development, the program continues to open new doors for future generations in Quintero. By offering experiences that combine technical knowledge with values such as equality and social commitment, it is forging a path toward a future where science and technology become engines of transformation, both personally and collectively.

The future of STEM education in Quintero is here to stay!

Changing the Future Through STEM Education in Alto Hospicio

2024 began with great excitement for the “STEM Education” program at the local technical school Alto Hospicio. Lab4U and Collahuasi co-created this STEM program in the north of Chile to provide students with more learning opportunities.

Thanks to Collahuasi’s support, the program transformed science teaching and learning by introducing technological tools that turn every class into a dynamic, fun, and hands-on experience using the Lab4U App on smartphones or tablets. Aimed at empowering both teachers and students, this initiative was able to connect theory with reality, making learning a true adventure.

The program supported 568 students and involved a dedicated team of five teachers who, together with Lab4U, filled the classrooms with creativity, talent, and experiential learning. Through innovative experiments and technological tools, students became increasingly motivated and connected with the STEM world in ways they had never imagined, opening doors to a future filled with opportunities in scientific, technical, and industrial fields.

Not only enriching science classes, this program also strengthened students’ interest and knowledge in STEM in the Tarapacá region, contributing to the retention of talent for the mining industry in the region. Additionally, the program provided support to the teaching team at the school with tools to maximize experimentation spaces, strengthen strategies to address university entrance tests, and use Artificial Intelligence as an educational tool, among others.

The future is in our hands, and science is the key to unlocking it!

 

“STEM Education with MSD” Transforms STEM Teaching in Rancagua

In 2024, we enthusiastically implemented the first program focused on the healthcare industry, “STEM Education with MSD”, at the local technical high school in Rancagua, to strengthen science education with an inclusive and diverse approach. We are deeply happy and grateful to have this partnership with MSD, the global leader in the pharmaceutical industry: MSD was key in providing these teachers innovative tools, not only to improve educational development but also to open new doors to students’ career expectations, giving them a more promising future.

The program promoted active student participation, inspiring them to explore careers in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics. Teachers transformed their pedagogical practices to incorporate gender perspective and to foster an inclusive environment, guided by Lab4U’s workshops and training sessions. This allowed students to take a leading role in the nursing specialty courses within the vocational and technical high school, focusing on developing key technological skills to meet the demands of the workforce in this field.

Activities like the “Girls in STEM” Bootcamp, aimed at strengthening gender perspective in STEM, made a significant impact on the program’s focus and educational content, and featured Amarilis Surroca, Director of Clinical Research at MSD Chile as a STEM role model. This bootcamp included the MSD-curated Lab4U experience “Immunity Mechanisms”, which deepened their practical learning on the social relevance of immunity. They highlighted the importance of promoting gender equality in science and technology, as well as connecting scientific learning with practical applications and relevant social challenges, inspiring students to envision a future in STEM graduate majors.

We are excited about everything we achieved this year and even more motivated to continue transforming STEM education in 2025!

Shaping the Future with “A Laboratory in Your Pocket” in San Bernardo

In 2024, the A Laboratory in Your Pocket program celebrated its second year with a local school in Santiago, after starting as a pilot in 2023. Thanks to the collaboration between MolymetNos and Lab4U, this project has revolutionized science education in the south of the capital Santiago, connecting students with the molybdenum and rhenium extraction industry while fostering their curiosity and preparing them for a future full of opportunities in science and technology.

The program places particular emphasis on the Industrial Chemistry Technician specialty, which is crucial for the academic and professional development of 11th and 12th grade students. Throughout the year, four passionate teachers guided their students, who explored Lab4U tools and applied their knowledge practically, facing real-world industrial scenarios.

Through the experiment “Relentless Precipitation,” students gain a unique experience of the molybdenum extraction industry processes. This approach not only develops fundamental technical skills but also prepares them to face future challenges with confidence.

All of this is driven by MolymetNos commitment to improve students’ conceptual foundation and enhancing learning around the productive processes and waste management of the industry.

Lab4U and the Alberto Blest Gana School: Transforming Science Education Since 2018

For the last 7 years, Lab4U and the Alberto Blest Gana School have worked together to transform science teaching and learning. In 2024, the program involved six teachers and over 800 students from 7th to 12th grade. The school’s principal, Ricardo Roman, and Komal Dadlani, Lab4U’s CEO and co-founder, share the belief that this innovative way of teaching and learning science makes a real difference. Both have co-written columns advocating for the use of technology in classrooms, which has contributed to a more dynamic and accessible education for all Alberto Blest Gana School students.

Throughout the year, teachers conducted 64 experiments with students, a significant increase from 40 the previous year, demonstrating how technology can enrich STEM learning. The results were encouraging, showing a positive correlation between the use of Lab4U and the development of scientific thinking skills, as well as a growing interest in STEM careers among students.

But beyond the numbers, these results reflect stories of students who, inspired by their experiences, are discovering their potential and confidently envisioning a future in science, thereby improving their professional development expectations.

The collaboration between Lab4U and the Alberto Blest Gana School remains an example of innovation and equity in education. These years of joint work prove that, with commitment and the right tools, it is possible to transform students’ futures, opening doors to new opportunities and ensuring that each one can reach their full potential. 

Here’s to an even greater 2025!

NorTEduca: since 2021 transforming STEM education in northern Chile 🌵👩‍🔬

Over the last four years, the NorTEduca program has been a driving force for change in scientific education in northern Chile. In partnership with SQM Iodine and Fundación Factor de Cambio, Lab4U has brought science learning to the regions of Tarapacá and Antofagasta, benefiting over 6,200 students and 76 teachers from 13 schools. This program has introduced innovative methodologies, interactive experiments, and technological tools, bringing young people closer to science and enabling them to explore new possibilities.

With 75% of jobs projected for 2050 related to STEM fields, preparing future generations is more urgent than ever. This challenge not only guarantees a future with more opportunities but also promotes social equity, as those who graduate in STEM careers have a 7% higher chance of accessing well-paid jobs with higher employment rates. Through NorTEduca, we have connected students with scientific and technological knowledge, preparing them to be part of that future full of opportunities.

The closing event took place at the AIEP Antofagasta campus, and was a true celebration of the impact of NorTEduca. We had the pleasure of having the presence of the Seremi of Science for the Northern Macrozone, Mr. Alonso Fernández, who participated and highlighted the importance of forming public-private partnerships to develop more robust public policies. These partnerships are essential for achieving better education and greater social equity. Alongside SQM Iodine and Fundación Factor de Cambio, we shared the joy of the achievements made in these four years and continue working to transform education and bring science closer to communities.

We are proud to be part of this program and to accompany students on their journey full of possibilities and dreams to be fulfilled, in collaboration with various educational agents united by one mission: to offer a better future to our students.

Thanks to SQM Iodine, Fundación Factor de Cambio, Inacap, AIEP, and all the schools involved in the NorTEduca program for building a great horizon of opportunities for students in northern Chile, alongside Lab4U.

Lab4U and Camanchaca: Expanding Opportunities for Students Through Science Education

The Lab4Sea Program, an innovative collaboration between Lab4U and Camanchaca, has been supporting teachers and students since 2023 at four schools in the south of Chile. This initiative enhances science learning in classrooms by integrating technology as an ally through Lab4U’s educational tools and resources.

This program has marked a turning point in science education in the region, offering students and teachers a transformative learning experience. It strengthens their STEM skills (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) while promoting sustainability awareness centered around the fishing industry and its production processes.

Beyond classroom activities, Lab4Sea has played a pivotal role in supporting participating schools during the 2024 Regional Science, Technology, Robotics, and Environment Fair. A highlight of this event was the experiment titled “The Journey of the Mackerel” 🐟, which demonstrated to attendees the relationship between ocean currents and the behavior of the jack mackerel, one of Camanchaca’s most renowned products.

We anticipate future editions pave an inspiring path to continue shaping new generations of young people committed to science and environmental stewardship. From southern Chile to the world! 

EducaSTEM Atacama with Eramet: Transforming Science Education for a Sustainable Future

Science teachers from Diego de Almagro, located in the Atacama Region, are leading a significant educational transformation through the EducaSTEM Atacama program, driven by Eramet and Lab4U.

Through training sessions, planning workshops, and in-classroom visits, the program strives to make STEM education more dynamic, hands-on, and effective with Lab4U tools. By incorporating quizzes, Lab4U experiments, lesson planners, and exit ticket generators—combined with the incredible dedication of teachers—we can continue transforming science classes into true spaces of inspiration and learning.

EducaSTEM Atacama is opening new doors for students, paving the way for a future workforce that drives the development of the entire region 🌟

Through induction sessions, planning workshops, and classroom days, the program strives to make STEM education more dynamic, hands-on, and effective with Lab4U tools. By incorporating quizzes, Lab4U experiments, lesson planners, and exit ticket generators—combined with the incredible dedication of teachers—we can continue transforming science classes into true spaces of inspiration and learning.

EducaSTEM Atacama is opening new doors for students, paving the way for a future workforce that drives the development of the entire region 🌟.

Expanding STEM Horizons: The Impact of Boeing, PADF, and Lab4U in Latin America in 2024

After four years of collaboration between Boeing, PADF, and Lab4U in Mexico, the program expanded to Chile in 2024. With this expansion, we reaffirm our commitment to promoting STEM education in Latin America, providing new opportunities that inspire our youth to explore their potential in science and technology in two schools in Mexico and one in Chile.

The STEM Americas 2024 Program not only supports students but also offers valuable resources and educational tools for teachers, such as premium access to Lab4U platforms to provide aerospace industry experiences from Boeing, and teacher training to make STEM classes more dynamic and effective for their students. We are convinced that with the commitment of educators, this program will continue transforming classrooms in Mexico and Chile to foster student talent.

Since 2021, Boeing and PADF, alongside Lab4U, have supported the development and opportunities for children and youth in Latin America to explore, learn, and become agents of change through the STEM Americas program.

Let’s keep going for more 🚀🇨🇱🇲🇽!

Lab4U and Escondida BHP Launch the 3rd Edition of the STEM+Gender Program

At Lab4U, we are thrilled to share that, alongside with Escondida | BHP, we carried out the third edition of the STEM+Gender Program during 2024. This program has been an incredible opportunity to inspire students to discover science through practical activities and educational experiences, with a special focus on promoting gender equality in STEM fields.

This year, we worked with students from five schools in Antofagasta: we are excited to see how this initiative continues to grow and transform scientific education in the region!

We know the challenge is great: by 2050, according to UN data, 75% of jobs will be linked to STEM fields. That’s why, alongside Escondida | BHP, we work to prepare students today with the tools and skills they need for that future, connecting them with mining and its productive processes.

This program seeks not only to develop local talent but also to build a more equitable and sustainable mining industry. Through adapted content, Lab4U giva students the opportunity to learn, experiment, and experience science in a practical and hands-on way.

Recently, we celebrated the closure of the 2024 edition with an event full of energy and enthusiasm at one of the schools involved in the program, where we gathered with the educational community, teachers, and participating students. We are proud to say that this year we impacted a community of 2,100 students and successfully trained 8 teachers, who have been key players in this process. Over the past three years, we have introduced innovative methodologies, interactive experiments, and technological tools to the classrooms, transforming the way science is taught and learned in Antofagasta.

At Lab4U, we are convinced that science can change lives. Together, we are revolutionizing scientific education and building an inclusive and sustainable labor future for Antofagasta.

Here’s to an amazing 2025! 🚀

ENAP and Lab4U: Transforming STEM Education in Quintero

ENAP’s and Lab4U’s partnership marks a significant improvement in Quintero’s educational community, enhancing the teaching of STEM disciplines (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) in five local schools. Through Lab4U’s innovative platform, students have access to hands-on experimentation in the classroom, developing critical thinking and problem-solving skills: with the Enhancing STEM Education Program with ENAP, we empower students to develop these skills, essential for the future workforce.

Additionally, the Enhancing STEM Education Program with ENAP includes a parental skills component, involving parents and guardians in their children’s STEM learning through specialized workshops. This initiative promotes a supportive environment at home that complements classroom education, empowering families to be active participants in students’ academic development and enhancing their performance.

This collaboration between ENAP and Lab4U aims not only to improve education in Quintero but also to create a lasting social impact by providing young people with 21st-century skills and promoting the socio-economic development of the region.

Transforming the Future of Science in Northern Chile: Lab4U and SQM Lithium

At Lab4U, we are excited to share our partnership with SQM Lithium to take science education to the next level in northern Chile. Together, we reacheda local northern school in Toconao with the goal of sparking interest in STEM disciplines (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) and creating new opportunities for students from 7th grade to 12th grade.

With our technology, we transformed their smartphones and tablets into learning tools that make science much more dynamic and accessible. Through classroom experiments, interactive quizzes, and hands-on activities, we help students reinforce their knowledge, develop research skills, and, most importantly, get excited about science.

This program also connects students with the local industry, exploring productive processes related to lithium—something very present in their surroundings. Students not only learn science but also see how it applies to real life. We want them to feel inspired to pursue careers in STEM fields, improve their career opportunities, and at the same time, elevate the local talent to the next level.

We recently celebrated the program’s first year with a very special encounter at school. The Lab4U team gathered with the educational community and SQM Lithium to share the achievements we’ve accomplished: nearly 200 students participated in the program this year, and two science teachers were trained and supported with continuous guidance in their planning and selection of Lab4U experiences. It was a day full of energy, where we showcased the evident positive impact of this initiative. Attendees actively participated, emphasizing their support for educational innovation and this project’s growing potential to continue enriching science education in the region.

At Lab4U, alongside SQM Lithium, we believe in a future where the young people of Toconao discover their potential in science and better opportunities present themselves. Since we know that by 2050 7 out of 10 jobs will be related to STEM fields – according to the UN -, we want to make sure they are more than ready to be part of that future! 🚀

Lab4U’s 2023 Impact

Lab4U 2023 Impact:
Fostering Future Leaders

At Lab4U, we’re always looking into the future: future innovations, future possibilities, and seizing future opportunities to solve the biggest problems of our time. 

That’s why we’re investing in students across Latin America to spark interest in STEM topics, and, in time, close the talent and gender gaps in our STEM-employment pipeline.

In 2023, we did just that by working with a dedicated, international community of educators and companies to transform how we teach, learn, and talk about STEM education. Thanks to this collaborative spirit, we touched the lives of over 7,000 young people, 100+ teachers across 30+ schools in Chile, Colombia, Mexico, and the U.S. 

But that’s not all, let us share what else has happened!

Introducing a brand-new product: Lab4U App!

This year, we debuted our brand new, powerhouse Lab4U App. As the new home to Physics, Chemistry, and Biology laboratories all in one place, the app provides students with endless opportunities to boost their STEM skills and broaden their minds—all from the palm of their hand. Let the scientific adventures begin!

Lab4U All in One

In our new Lab4U App, we have added these amazing Branded Labs with experiential content aligned to STEM industries. 

We are also, introducing three innovative tools—Quizzes, Teamwork, and Planning—enhanced with AI to optimize learning. These tools aim to provide a more interactive and personalized educational experience.

Plus over a dozen other groundbreaking partnership projects and educational programs, which you can read about in full in ‘Our Key Focus: Building a Global Tapestry’ section. 

Upon reading it, you’ll find that Lab4U’s commitment to encouraging young minds to embrace science and technology is not just a mission; it’s a call to action. The more people, businesses, and communities that invest in our young people, the brighter our future looks.

So thank you for your support of Lab4U in 2023. Here’s to looking to the future, and to seizing the opportunities 2024 will hold.

Branded Labs: Cool Experiences for STEM Industries

In 2023, we achieved a new milestone by creating educational content related to various industries, including Energy, Mining, and Pharma. This initiative aims to help students expand their vocational horizons in STEM careers and encourages companies to collaborate on developing solutions for a more sustainable industry incorporating new empowered talent. 

Lab4U Branded labs
Pablo Pisani
Pablo Pisani

Chief Community Officer for Nitrates Iodine and North Public Affairs, SQM

"We are very pleased with the 2023 results of the NortEduca Program executed by Lab4U, not only because of the commitment of their professionals and the quality of the pedagogical work they carry out in territories important to us, but also because through SQM Labs, they are bringing the industry closer to new generations and projecting the future of innovation and technological development, from the North of Chile to the world."

Elizableth Cameron
Escondida BHP Lab4U
Elizabeth Cameron

Corporate Affairs Specialist, Escondida | BHP

"Through the 'STEM+Gender' program, we aspire to have more students in Antofagasta broaden their vocational future and view science, technology, engineering, and mathematics as spaces for professional and personal development."

Montserrat Palomar
Camanchaca Lab4U
Montserrat Palomar

Sustainability and Community Relations at Enel Chile

“Collaborating with Lab4U has allowed us to use the power of education to benefit our community and promote the participation of women in the energy industry. It’s exciting to see that a cell phone can be used to inspire new generations to further their own interests and pursue future careers in STEM professions.”

Sergio Giacaman
Camanchaca Lab4U
Sergio Giacaman

Chief Sustainability Officer, Camanchaca

“We are very committed to education and are strongly investing in enhancing the talents of students in the communities where our production plants are located. Initiatives like Lab4Sea help us develop joint solutions for the externalities generated by the industry, improving our environmental performance and training future professionals in the field of science."

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Building a Global Tapestry

Lab4U’s commitment to knowledge and skills development, innovation, and global collaboration echoes in every corner of the world, weaving a rich and diverse tapestry of learning and discovery that transcends geographical boundaries. From Chile to the world!

PADF BOEING

Democratizing STEM Education in Mexico with Boeing and PADF 🇲🇽

Once again, Mexico became a canvas for our educational endeavors in 2023. Teaming up with the Pan American Development Foundation (PADF) and Boeing, Lab4U ventured into Baja Californa and Querétaro as part of a new version of the STEM Americas Program.

BRILLAS COLOMBIA

Sparking Scientific Curiosity in Colombia 🇨🇴

Once again, Mexico became a canvas for our educational endeavors in 2023. Teaming up with the Pan American Development Foundation (PADF) and Boeing, Lab4U ventured into Baja Californa and Querétaro as part of a new version of the STEM Americas Program.

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Achieving Impact Through Great Partnerships Across Chile

ESCONDIDA PHP

Lab4U and Escondida|BHP join forces to create a hands-on and immersive learning experience in science, technology, and mining 🇨🇱

Lab4U, along with Escondida | BHP, which has been committed to sustainability since 2020 by transitioning to a 100% renewable energy matrix, has created experiments aimed at bringing young students and teachers closer to the fascinating world of the mining industry and its respective stages.

SQM

Exploring the Future of Mining: Lab4U and SQM Transforming STEM Learning to Empower 21st Century Talent 🇨🇱

Lab4U and SQM developed the third version of the NorTEduca Program, which aims to provide an innovative educational experience by showcasing the production processes of SQM. This program opens the doors to the fascinating world of the mining industry, where science and technology converge.

Camanchaca

Revolutionizing Scientific Education and aquaculture industry with Camanchaca 🇨🇱

Lab4U and Camanchaca are revolutionizing science education for four schools in the south of Chile by offering exciting experiments that allow students to dive in and learn about various aspects of the fishing industry through the Lab4Sea program.

ENEL

Enel and Lab4U Collaborate on Program Bridging Students with Energy Industry Processes and Challenges 🇨🇱

The initiative developed by Lab4U and promoted by ENEL will include a series of activities and experiments specially designed to bring students and teachers closer to the processes and challenges of the energy industry and to motivate future leaders in the field of science.

Engie

Engie and Lab4U launched a pilot program to revolutionize teaching and scientific learning in Chiloé 🇨🇱

Students from the Bicentennial High School of Dalcahue will be able to achieve significant improvements in the scientific field by incorporating the use of smartphones and tablets as laboratory tools within the classrooms, with the support of the educational solution provided by Lab4U and ENGIE Chile.

CBB

Cementos Bío Bío (Cbb) and Lab4U launches an educational program in Talcahuano 🇨🇱

This program is part of Cbb's sustainability strategy and will allow, among other things, to promote the interest of more students in acquiring STEM skills through experimental activities, to increase their participation in these careers in the future.

Molymetnos

MolymetNos and Lab4U Transform Science into Fun 🇨🇱

MolymetNos and Lab4U are developing the program 'Lab in Your Pocket', an educational tool that enables students to explore the world of MolymetNos' industrial processes. This provides them with valuable knowledge and can broaden their employment opportunities in the metallurgical, chemical, and metal industries.

FEES

Lab4U and Educational Foundation El Salvador (FEES) Transform STEM Education in El Salvador Mining Camp 🇨🇱

This initiative plays a crucial role in motivating Chilean students to explore the wonders of science and mining in partnership with Educational Foundation El Salvador for more than 400 students.

LINTAC

Fostering Scientific Exploration and STEM Excellence: Lab4U's Dynamic Partnership with Lincoln International Academy 🇨🇱

Over the past three years, the fruitful collaboration with Lincoln School has not only revolutionized teaching methods but has also positioned the institution as a benchmark for STEM education in Chile.

ABG

Lab4U and Alberto Blest Gana School Elevate Scientific Learning 🇨🇱

A seven-year partnership, with over 800 students and five teachers, showcases how technological innovation and experimentation are paving the way for accessible STEM careers, bridging gaps, and setting the pace for the future of scientific education.

3M

Empowering Future Professionals: Lab4U and 3M Transform STEM Education in Quellón, Chiloé. 🇨🇱

The program not only benefits students and teachers, but also drives technological advancements and creative solutions to global problems, contributing to a more inclusive and dynamic job market locally and internationally for students in the south of Chile.

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Working together, we extend our reach: Echoes from the Education Leaders

Lab4U’s impactful reach is made possible by the unwavering commitment and tremendous support of our teachers. We extend heartfelt gratitude to our esteemed teaching community – the true heroes and heroines reshaping the landscape of science education!

Ofelia
Brillas
Ofelia Zaragoza

Director of the Meyally School Mexico

"The Lab4U activity proved to be a fantastic experience for my students. I hope it continues to draw my students closer to the realms of science, and that each activity leaves a lasting impact on their lifelong learning journey. "

Macarena
Brillas
Macarena León

Teacher - Liceo Yobilo - Lab4Sea Project - Camanchaca

The activities, while simple, are challenging, allowing us to cultivate our students' interest in scientific inquiry and experimental verification of theoretical aspects describing a phenomenon. "Hope to continue bringing my students even closer to the world of sciences."

Sebastian
Brillas
Sebastián Zunino

Teacher - Colegio Quellón - 3M Project

Colegio Quellón has been using Lab4U since 2022, learning about the natural sciences via experiments. This way, students acquire new skills while discovering for themselves the knowledge to be gleaned from using the scientific method. Without a doubt, Lab4U is a great resource.

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Mom! We’re on TV!

Are we blushing? Yes! In 2023, Lab4U made headlines over 100 times with coverage spanning from our CEO being recognized as one of the Most Powerful Women in Chile by the prestigious Forbes, to features on CNN and numerous other TV shows and press outlets. Dive in now!

Forbes Honors Lab4U CEO Komal Dadlani among Chile's 30 Most Powerful Women

Our CEO, Komal Dadlani, was named one of the 30 Most Powerful Women in Chile by prestigious Forbes magazine.

Our CEO attended the prestigious Davos conference organized by the World Economic Forum in Switzerland

Komal was featured on the cover of Diario Financiero (FT in Chile) as the only Chilean entrepreneur invited to attend the World Economic Forum. 

CNN: Lab4U, the Chilean startup bringing science closer to the youth

Our CEO, Komal Dadlani, had the honor of being interviewed by Pulitzer Prize winner Andrés Oppenheimer on CNN en Español, sharing Lab4U’s groundbreaking efforts in revolutionizing STEM education across Latin America.

The AI and its Impact on Education: A Reflection by Komal Dadlani & ChatGPT

Komal asked ChatGPT to co-write an opinion column on how Artificial Intelligence has completely changed the paradigm of how we educate ourselves and learn at any age. Here’s the result.

Ministries of AI, Metaverse, Sustainability, and Other Trends Addressed in the Future Council of the World Economic Forum

Should countries have a Minister of Artificial Intelligence? Komal answers this question, plus she reveals the potential challenges involved with this new position.

Our CEO co-authored a blog for the WEF talking about social impact and why we must ground the metaverse in the 'humanverse'

While the metaverse calls us to enter a technological infrastructure that is not accessible to all, the physical world needs our attention and investment.

What’s Next for Lab4U? A Collection of SurprAIses are Coming! Stay Tuned.

IA Lab4U

Last but Certainly Not Least
Please Meet Our Dream Team!

We’re a bunch of diverse, inclusive, multicultural, and all-around awesome individuals with one mission: to create a groundswell of critical thinkers and curious minds ready to take on the big challenges humanity throws our way. 

Of course, you, too, are an important part of our team—thank you for supporting us on this adventure!

Lab4U and Escondida | BHP Join Forces to Generate a Hands-On and In-Depth Learning Experience in Science, Technology, and Mining through Branded Experiments.

According to the UN, by 2050, 75% of jobs will be related to STEM topics, making it crucial for our students to develop practical skills and acquire scientific knowledge applicable to real life.

With this goal in mind, Lab4U, along with Escondida | BHP, which has stood out since 2021 for its commitment to sustainability by transitioning to a 100% renewable energy matrix, has created experiments aimed at bringing young students and teachers closer to the fascinating world of the mining industry and its respective stages. Through three exciting experiences, participants can explore different mining processes while learning by doing. This provides students with an immersive and deeply educational activity, discovering how science, technology, and sustainability come together to address the challenges of the mining sector.

Using the camera on their mobile devices with the “Crushing Time” experiment, students can investigate how energy is transferred during the crushing process in mining, understanding how gravitational potential energy and kinetic energy combine to form total mechanical energy.

Escondida | BHP has invested US$3.4 billion in the Escondida Water Supply (EWS) project, which consists of a desalination plant and a water transport system to supply the copper mine. The desalination plant ensures a sustainable water supply in the desert areas of Chile and reduces dependence on aquifers, allowing Escondida | BHP to produce copper sustainably and meet its environmental commitments.

To learn how Escondida | BHP has incorporated various water-saving strategies in its processes and thus reduce water consumption during copper extraction, the “Let’s Save Every Drop” experiment will allow students to analyze the different stages of the leaching process. Through leaching, Escondida | BHP manages to reduce water consumption by more than 80% by using spheres made of 100% recycled plastic, which float on the water’s surface, insulate heat, and prevent evaporation. One of the processes benefiting from this saving is leaching, which allows obtaining copper sulfate from rocks fragmented during crushing.

To understand the key role of electrowinning in the production of copper-derived products, students can build a homemade system for this technique, through which they will obtain pure metallic copper during their science classes. This experiment will allow participants to understand the fundamental role of this process, which Escondida | BHP has focused on to reduce greenhouse gas emissions throughout its supply chain.

The mining industry plays a crucial role not only in the Chilean economy but also globally, so it is important that our students understand its operation and the challenges it faces to achieve an increasingly sustainable industry. Lab4U’s Branded Labs offer a great opportunity for our young people to learn firsthand, experiencing and exploring mining processes practically and getting to know new responsible practices in the extraction and processing of various minerals.

For the second year, Lab4U and Escondida | BHP are developing the STEM+Gender Program, aiming to enhance and bring talent closer to the mining industry to train and empower the workforce of the future. This will enable us to face the challenges and opportunities that the 21st century offers us towards equitable and sustainable development.

Get to know the experience of teachers and students participating in the STEM+Gender Program!

🚀 Exploring the Future of Mining: Lab4U and SQM Transforming STEM Learning to Empower 21st Century Talent 🏭

Lab4U and SQM are developing the third edition of the NorTEduca Program, aiming to offer an innovative educational experience by showcasing SQM’s production processes. This opens the doors to the fascinating world of the mining industry, where science and technology converge.

In the regions of Tarapacá and Antofagasta, students from 7 schools can dive into different mining themes and understand how science, technology, and sustainability come together to tackle the challenges of the sector.

These experiences have been specially designed to provide practical and in-depth learning through experimentation, allowing participants to explore firsthand the various processes and stages of mining. There are 5 branded experiments developed by Lab4U, revealing some of the production processes carried out by SQM to obtain its minerals:

Students can learn how solubility relates to the crystallization process used by SQM for mineral purification.

To analyze the flow rate of extracting a brine pulp using a hydraulic pump.

Allows studying the behavior of fluids at different temperatures, simulating the Solar Evaporation Pools of brines used by SQM to obtain lithium.

Did you know? To produce iodine at SQM, caliche is extracted from the desert, transported, and piled up. Then, these piles are sprayed with water in a process called cold leaching, to extract minerals from the caliche. With this experiment, students will analyze factors that can influence fluid mobility.

Nitrate (NO3-) is one of the main compounds in fertilizers and can be naturally produced by extracting it from caliche and brines in the Atacama Desert. This allows Chile, through the work of SQM, to be a world leader in the production of naturally sourced potassium nitrate with the lowest carbon footprint, chlorine-free, and 100% soluble. This enables a more rational use of water for irrigation, increasing the quality and yield of various crops.

We are proud to continue empowering the motivation and learning of over 3,000 students in northern Chile. STEM talent that will become the minds successfully facing the challenges and opportunities of an increasingly technologized and sustainable industry.

We invite you to discover the NorTEduca experience in the voices of our protagonists. How students and teachers are transforming the way of learning and teaching sciences, becoming young leaders… from Chile to the world!

Women in mining for sustainable and equitable development

The 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and the 17 goals (Sustainable Development Goals, hereinafter SDGs) approved by the member countries of the United Nations in 2015 establish a close relationship between development, equality and growth. Gender equality is considered a key goal (SDG 5) in the 2030 Agenda and is included transversally in almost all the other goals. This presents an opportunity to address the main gender inequalities, especially in economic sectors such as mining, which have significant gaps in access to employment and working conditions for women.

In Chile, gender inequality and environmental deterioration are related in communities linked to the mining industry, where the appearance of environmental conflicts has promoted the role of women as community leaders in the face of proposed mining projects. Although women have a key role in the sustainable development of mining companies, female participation in this type of industry is barely 8.4%. To improve this number, intersectoral dialogues have occurred between the Ministry of Mining, the Ministry of Women and Gender Equality and public-private companies. Based on these dialogues, the main obstacles faced by women for their participation in the mining sector were identified. The biggest obstacles are cultural barriers that perpetuate a domestic role for women, mistaken beliefs, for example, believing that the presence of women in mining brings bad luck, and the lack of measures to reconcile work and family life that is often given to the woman.

Women in mining

The jobs that are mostly offered to women are administrative and service jobs, generally provided by contractor companies, with low pay and precarious conditions. Therefore, to achieve gender equality, not only the number of jobs offered to women must be increased, but also the quality and working conditions must be improved.

The alliance between governmental institutions and companies seeks to strengthen the inclusion of women into the mining sector. More and more mining companies seek to increase the number of women in the industry, as demonstrated by the Public-Private Mining Roundtable in Tarapacá, which includes gender, safety, and supplier subcommittees. However, operational conditions, labor regulations, education and maternity continue to be barriers to access.

Proposed solutions to address these difficulties include strengthening regulations and eliminating possible contradictions between laws and regulations that discourage the hiring of women, reviewing the application and regulations on work at height, promoting positive actions in the recruitment of women in mining, and requesting that the institutions in charge of training women respond to the demands of the sector.

In addition to women who live in nearby communities and face difficulties working in the mining industry, professional women also have trouble integrating because they are overqualified and motherhood is seen as interfering with their careers. An article that interviewed 12 women in senior positions in mining companies reported that most of them experienced fear, pain, nervousness, and anguish upon integrating “forcibly” into an environment that explicitly rejected them. However, these women have led daily revolutions on field, generating a new symbolic and cultural scenario within the teams. Despite the obstacles they experience on a daily basis, mining professionals see themselves as examples for others and feel a conscious responsibility to break down historical barriers in a masculinized industry.

Women in mining

It is important to highlight that the contribution of women in the mining industry is essential for its sustainable development and the formation of communities inside and outside the company. More and more companies are joining the search for women who want to make the change, through initiatives such as seminars that promote STEM careers related to the mining industry only for women, or through exclusive calls so that more women can work as operators. Although change is not easy, more women in STEM careers can achieve a better future for the mining industry and society in general.

Questions to ponder:

1. Why do you think that gender equality is a key objective in the 2030 Agenda and why is it included in a transversal way in almost all the other objectives?

2. What do you think are the main cultural barriers that prevent women’s participation in the mining industry and what solutions can be implemented to address these difficulties?

References:

Caro, P., Roman, H., & Armijo, L. (2021). Women in senior mining positions in Chile. Agency and gender tensions. Convergence Journal of Social Sciences, 28, 1-29.

Step, D. (2021). Women and mining. Resiliences and marginalization in mining territories. Norte Grande Geography Magazine, 80, 129-148.

Stefanovic, A., & Saavedra, M. (2016). Women in the Chilean mining sector. Santiago: ECLAC.

Lab4U’s 2022 Impact – Thank you! ❤

Lab4U’s 2022 Impact: empowering future leaders

Did you know that, by 2050, the UN estimates that 75% of jobs will be related to STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) careers? Unfortunately, only 16% of  students today decide to study a STEM-related career. 

Technological transformation, industry digitalization, and the constant challenges humans face require that we train our future workforce today. That’s why, at Lab4U, we encourage our young people to pursue science and technology. As a result, we hope to generate real change, impact the future of work, and increase equality, equity, and respect for our students.

We have a lot to tell you! During 2022, we reached more than 7,000 students across 25 different communities and 40+ schools in Chile, Colombia, Mexico, and the United States. We, however, have not walked this path alone; 110+ teachers and management teams helped us transform science classes and deepen students’ learning using 15+ projects we developed this year.

From Chile to the World

STEM Americas Program | PADF and Boeing

🇲🇽 Beautiful and dear Mexico received us once again. Together with the Pan American Development Foundation (PADF) and Boeing, we reached two educational communities in Querétaro with the STEM Americas Program, which hosted experiments, bootcamps, and scientific projects, all with an aerospace focus. The program’s overall aim was to have students solve environmental problems using STEM disciplines and Lab4U tools. They then presented their findings to more than 200 attendees at the November 2022 Science Fair.

Impact Report 2022 - Fundación Brillas

Experimenta en tu Colegio | Fundación Brillas

We further expanded our borders with Experimenta en tu Colegio, a project developed with Fundación Brillas. This time we went to Colombia 🇨🇴! More than 300 students in the towns of Villavicencio and Pachaquiaro developed skills, scientific research processes, and knowledge around the greatest ideas of science.

In schools across Chile 🇨🇱, from Antofagasta to Chiloé.

Impact Report 2022 - Escondida BHP

STEM+Género Escondida | BHP

We’re empowering and motivating more than 150 girls to study science and technology, with the STEM+Gender program supported by Escondida|BHP. In 2023, we will continue to encourage students’ STEM development and thus strengthen the future of Antofagasta’s workforce.

NorTEduca | SQM And Fundación VOA

The NorTEduca program, which, thanks to the sponsorship of SQM in partnership with Fundación VOA, allowed us to work with 3,000 students and 80 teachers while benefiting 1,000 families. The program brought science activities, training, innovative methodologies, and didactic strategies to Pozo Almonte, Alto Hospicio, Tocopilla, Quillagua, and beyond.

Scientific Education for Change | Fundación Ashoka and Fundación Olivo

We achieved an even broader territorial reach with the Scientific Education for Change program, developed collaboratively with the ASHOKA Foundation and with the support of the Olivo Foundation. In total, we contributed to the development of STEM skills in more than 1,700 students across seven educational communities. We motivated young people to become “Changemakers,” encouraging them to become leaders in Chile and worldwide, with science, experimentation, and technology as their fundamental engine.

ExperimEntel | Entel

With a new version of the ExperimEntel program, we promoted the development of scientific learning and social impact in two Santiago schools. More than 160 students and teachers benefited from Lab4U tools, pedagogical support, and experimental accompaniment to deepen the students’ understanding of physics.

This year, we also celebrated continued partnerships with schools that have trusted us from the beginning, in Chile, such as  Alberto Blest Gana School, Altamira School and Lincoln International Academy. In Mexico  Instituto Asunción and in USA, South Georgia College. These schools  are transforming their science classes together with Lab4U.

There’s still more!

In 2022, we reached an important milestone for our company: we created the Impact Department, which will be essential in helping us measure Lab4U’s social impact across different educational communities. It also positions us as a leader within the education, innovation, and entrepreneurship ecosystem in Chile and in the rest of the countries where we work.

Finally, to crown a great year, Morgan Stanley recognized us as the first and only Chilean-American startup selected to be part of its 2022 Multicultural Innovation Laboratory 💪. Lab4U was one of eight international companies selected for its high growth and women- and/or multicultural-led entrepreneurs. As part of the program, Lab4U receives support in business consultancy, acceleration, and due diligence, all of which has been key to our financial operation as we look towards international expansion and upcoming capital raises.

2022 was a great year. Join us in 2023 to continue transforming STEM education and making it universal around the world!

With our partners, we go further.

Pablo Pisani
Pablo Pisani

Manager Communities Nitrates Iodine and North Public Affairs,
SQM

“At SQM, one of our work pillars is education and culture, where we support programs that provide tools to develop skills in students and teachers and bridge the gaps that schools far from large urban centers face.

NorTEduca is an outstanding program that we have promoted with Lab4U and that has achieved great success in the Tarapacá and Antofagasta regions. It positively impacts the lives of children and teens who, despite living in isolated areas, now have the opportunity, together with their teachers, to integrate technological tools into their studies and learn science using their phone and Lab4U applications.”

Elizabeth Cameron
Elizabeth Cameron

Corporate Affairs Specialist,
Escondida | BHP

“As a company, we promote the STEM+Gender Program, which in a playful way seeks to attract the attention of young women who are searching for their future profession. It is an invitation to break paradigms to advance gender equality and dare to discover careers that are a source of innovation, sustainability, and leadership in the world of work.”

Lina Sanchez
Lina Sanchez

Director of the Brillas Foundation

“For the Brillas Foundation, it has been very satisfying to work with the Lab4U team and launch an innovative commitment to secondary-ed science teaching in Colombia. We frequently see how students move away from the scientific field due to a lack of motivation, significant learning, or self-confidence. It is inspiring to see Lab4U provide a practical and scalable tool that not only awakens knowledge, but also the motivation and expectations of young people who are defining their lives and who can use STEM education as an opportunity to shine in society.”

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From the voice of our heroes and heroines

It is all thanks to the commitment, bond, and support of our teachers that Lab4U can impact science education and transform students into the workforce the 21st century requires.

To our teaching community, we are so grateful for your partnership. You are heroes and heroines changing the way science is taught and learned!

Camilo Rojas
Camilo Rojas

Biology Teacher. Quellón School, Chiloé, Chile.
Scientific Education for Change Project, Olivo Foundation.

Professor Camilo sees in Lab4U a great pedagogical tool to help his students. He also greatly values its ease of use, which helps him further develop his science curriculum and better the students’ laboratory experience. “With Lab4U I have the peace of mind that It’s going to work, so I just do it,” he explains.

Karen Lizama
Karen Lizama

Physics and Robotics Teacher, Liceo Marta Narea Díaz, Antofagasta, Chile.
STEM+Gender Project, Escondida|BHP.

Professor Lizama tells us that Lab4U has changed her way of working. “Before, I just taught the lessons, and at the end of the unit I took students to the lab, and they were super motivated with that activity. But today, I teach most of the lessons by experimenting, so that it’s more practical and the students can use tools–and that has changed even my teaching perspective”.

Evert Daza
Evert Daza

Physics Teacher, INEM Villavicencio, Colombia.
Project “Experiment in your School”

Professor Evert loves the support he gets from Lab4U, as he feels his requirements have always been responded to and the work tools are effective for experimenting. “Today, we use video for the analysis of physics, so apart from recording the movement, the analysis can be done immediately. [Lab4U] gives you the tables and the data with quite good precision, which is very interesting to me.”

Cesar Rodríguez
Cesar Rodríguez

Professor of Interpretation of physical phenomena of matter, CONALEP Querétaro, Mexico
Project “STEM Americas”

Professor Cesar appreciates that students have direct interaction with and immediate verification from different materials when using Lab4U. “When we have a new topic, students ask me if we can work with Lab4U,” he says. That makes us happy.

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The power of Science in your hands

This year, our Department of Education developed new material and content covering the three different subjects using various mobile tools and sensors, like the accelerometer in Physics “Planet in Motion,” the color inspector in Chemistry “Birthday Party,” and the analyscope in Biology “Coastal Resources.” We invite you to dig into each of the sciences and learn more about the range of resources Lab4U offers.

science, Biology

Lab4Biology

The evolution of learning is in Lab4U’s DNA. Release serotonin while you learn!

Lab4Biology added more pre-designed experiments meant to develop 21st-century science skills through inquiry and project-based learning.

science, Physics

Lab4Physics

We strongly support knowledge acceleration for mass learning.

Lab4Physics added experiments to its curriculum that allowed students to learn in real time about the Universe, Earth, and Optics.

science, Chemistry

Lab4Chemistry

The Chemistry between you and Lab4U is the core to generate a chain reaction towards the knowledge of sciences.

In Lab4Chemistry, we added thermodynamics, redox, structure of matter, and organic chemistry experiments to our catalog.

Mom, I was on TV! 📰

We’re excited to share some major milestones we reached in 2022. Lab4U appeared in the press more than 100 times, covering everything from our partnership with Morgan Stanley to the creation of our Impact Area and even the international recognition of our solution as one of the most promising EdTech in North America, and our co-founder and CEO as a standout female entrepreneur. We invite you to relive the best of our year and visit these articles 👇🏽🎬

science, stem

The North America EdTech 200 is HolonIQ’s annual list of the most promising EdTech startups from North America

The North America EdTech 200 is focused on identifying young, fast growing and innovative learning, teaching and up-skilling startups in Canada and the United States. This year’s list sees a greater focus on the learner experience, including engagement, communication & retention.

stem, science

This is how Komal Dadlani attracted investment from Morgan Stanley to her startup, Lab4U

Lab4U became the first Chilean startup to join the financial giant’s exclusive acceleration program. Over five months, Morgan Stanley partnered with Dadlani to strengthen Lab4U’s business plan, with the aim of reaching a future IPO or M&A operation.

Lab4U signs ProChile’s former Head of Innovation to grow and enhance social impact

The recently created Impact Area started measuring the platform’s social impact in the various communities where it operates. It also works to strengthen the relationship between Lab4U and its stakeholders and position Lab4U as an important actor in the national and international innovation ecosystem.

science

The great leap of a pioneer of Chilean startups

Lab4U, led by Chilean Komal Dadlani, shares encouraging news: in addition to obtaining investment from the U.S. firm Morgan Stanley (thanks to its Cultural Innovation Laboratory), it also attracted the attention of new investors while consolidating in Mexico and Colombia. “Only 2.3% of funding in the Venture Capital industry goes to startups with female founders,” she explains.

science

Komal Dadlani and science education in Chile | Última Mirada

The CEO and co-founder of Lab4U spoke with Última Mirada about the promotion of science education in Chile and its weaknesses in this area.

Our team

We’re pleased to introduce our dream team, which this year grew by more than 70%! It includes diverse, inclusive, multicultural, and multidisciplinary talent, all of whom are committed to supporting our students and teachers in order to create critical and curious citizens, who will solve the great challenges of humanity.

Boeing and The Pan American Development Fund Back Kids’ STEM Education with Lab4U Partnership

Lab4U could not be more excited to announce a new partnership with The Boeing Company and The Pan American Development Foundation (PADF) in support of science teachers and students in Querétaro, Mexico. Together, the companies will be providing free lab technology, materials, and support across three schools for the 2021-2022 school year.

“STEM education is critical for equipping students with the skills they need to thrive in the 21st century (…) However, in Latin America, up to 88% of schools don’t have science labs, and in those that do, much of the equipment is out of date. It puts those students at a disadvantage from an early age and leaves them uninspired.”

Komal Dadlani, CEO of Lab4U.

Dadlani co-founded Lab4U to help close that gap. The socially-conscious company increases access to quality science education by developing affordable new technologies and teaching methodologies that students can access from anywhere, thanks to their smartphones. Using Lab4U’s app and accessories, a cell phone becomes a pocket laboratory, allowing kids to complete a wide range of science labs in real time.

Lab4U and PADF teachers experimenting with Lab4Chemistry

The Boeing-Lab4U-PADF alliance will provide three Querétaro-based schools with unlimited access to Lab4U’s chemistry and physics applications, plus additional materials, training, and monitoring for science teachers and students in Upper Secondary Education. All tools will support CONALEP and COBAQ curricula; most importantly, they will promote meaningful learning and an increased interest in STEM subjects.

The effort comes at a particularly important time as schools navigate the ongoing shift between in-class and remote learning. Thanks to their portability, Lab4U’s phone-based products allow teachers to create an effective learning experience for their students both in school and at home. As a result, teachers can leverage real-world experiments to help their students to better understand their environment during this particularly challenging time.

Boeing chose Querétaro for the project’s launch, because the state is one of its largest producers of aircraft parts.

“STEM education prepares students to face the challenges of the future. At PADF Mexico, we are very happy to have the STEM Americas program in Querétaro, as it will help stimulate curiosity and an interest in scientific knowledge for the good of our country. Future graduates of the program will enjoy better work opportunities, and it’s an opportunity, also, for Mexico to promote workforce training that engages people with the economy and is rooted in human development and dignity.”

Valeria Uribe, Director of PADF Mexico.

To bolster these skills, Lab4U will be partnering with Boeing to design aerospace-related experiments to inspire students to pursue STEM-related careers. At Lab4U we are happy to join forces with an organization that cares about Education and has been working on it for a long time. For more information on other Education related topics from Boeing, check out the following link: Boeing Educational Resources. 

This year with PADF and Boeing, Lab4U is working in the Querétaro-area schools which are currently invited to apply for the STEM program; three teachers will be chosen to receive the program that includes Lab4U’s implementation and support. The project is also a part of the STEM Americas program, which encourages math and science education across Latin America through strategic partnerships between schools and the private sector. For more information on Boeing’s growth in Mexico, visit here. For more information on PADF, visit here. For more information on Lab4U’s novel approach to science education, visit lab4u.co.

Lab4U Scholarship: Bringing science closer to students in high-need communities in times of COVID-19

The impact of the pandemic on schools and learning communities around the world has been incredibly challenging and demanding.

lab4u-experiment
Experimentation

The COVID-19 health crisis has affected everyone, and educators are no exception. Indeed, the impact of the pandemic on schools and learning communities around the world has been incredibly challenging. Demanding that teachers, administrators, families, and students themselves radically change the way they’re teaching and learning in a short period of time.

While this transition hasn’t been easy for anyone. It’s been especially challenging for students in public schools in low-income communities, which may not have the infrastructure or the resources to adapt to this “new normal”.

Science, experimentation, and inquiry

Lab4U has always sought to bring science, experimentation, and inquiry closer to learning communities all over the world. At this time, we’re especially concerned with the experience of students and teachers in public schools. We’re looking for ways to support them with resources to ensure quality distance learning experiences.

  • How can we ensure that all students, have the resources and tools they need for a quality science education?
  • Who can we work with to multiply our impact in STEM education?

Beca Lab4U program: meaningful and lasting impact

lab4u-app
Lab on your pocket

In the spirit of generating meaningful and lasting impact in schools and communities in need of support, at the end of May we launched the “Beca Lab4U” (Lab4U Scholarship) program, supported by CEMEX and the US Embassy in Mexico.

During this program, we were able to offer Lab4Physics Premium for free to a group of teachers and their students in public schools all over Mexico, giving thousands of students access to a lab in their pocket and the chance to learn science through experimentation from their own homes.

After receiving close to 200 applications to the “Beca Lab4U” program and evaluating the interest and motivation of each applicant, we selected a group of 39 physics teachers to participate in this unique program.

The teachers, who come from 7 different states all over Mexico, represent a tremendous diversity of contexts and experiences. But they’re unified by their concern for developing significant STEM knowledge and skills among their students, and an interest in innovating in science education.

Stundents worked with Lab4Physics from home!

After online training, we created users for more than 1,500 students who were able to access Lab4Physics for the last month of the 2019-20 school year. Indeed, they worked with Lab4Physics from home, using only basic material most students can find at home.

Those that are able to have also been able to participate in synchronous classes with their classmates. And others who may not have internet or computer access have participted in WhatsApp and Messenger conversations with their classmates where they share their analysis and what they’ve discovered as they experiment from home.

lab4u-webinars
Online Training

We hope the learning that comes out of this project have a lasting benefit for participating students. And they also keep learning and being inspired by science throughout their lives.

Are you interested in supporting science education in a high-need school?

There are thousands more students and teachers across Mexico, who are looking to contribute to education initiatives like these. When students and teachers need it most!

Finally, contact us today to learn more!

[email protected]