School dropout prevention in France

At the beginning of May 2025, LifeTime Projects organized a unique event at ENGEES Strasbourg: the Innova’thon, a two-day innovation challenge bringing together 34 middle school students and 17 professionals to co-create solutions to pressing social and environmental issues.

This initiative is part of LifeTime Projects’ long-term work with at-risk students from the International Middle School of Esplanade. The Innova’thon aimed to support their career orientation through a meaningful and empowering experience. With the guidance of professionals from various fields, students explored real-world sustainability challenges, built prototypes, and pitched their ideas to a professional jury.

Highlights:

• Workshops on the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
• Group projects focused on inclusion, climate, waste management, and well-being in schools
• Hands-on prototyping and final presentations to a jury
• Creative solutions included:
• A board game on invisible disabilities
• A well-being-centered school design
• A sensory recycling bin to encourage cigarette waste disposal
• An on-site garden for food sustainability
• A recycling facility employing marginalized individuals

All teams were recognized with awards in innovation, teamwork, presentation, and design.

Beyond creativity, the event fostered confidence, civic engagement, and professional exploration. For many students, it was a first encounter with the world of work. Professionals, in turn, gained insight into the concerns and resilience of today’s youth.

Thanks to our partners and funders, including the City and Eurometropolis of Strasbourg, the Grand Est Prefecture, ENGEES, and corporate and educational sponsors, who made this inspiring event possible.

Links:

• Project Page