Four exciting new projects were selected for funding in the fourth call by the Students4Sustainability evaluation committee. The cross-university hub of the four Bernese higher education institutions thus supports committed students who are actively promoting sustainable development with their innovative, interdisciplinary projects.

We are pleased to present the newly funded projects for the autumn semester 2025:

OrbMatter

OrbMatter is further developing a low-carbon material mixture made from hemp fibres and a mineral binding agent and researching its potential in art, design and education through prototyping and experimental workshop formats. With funding from Students4Sustainability, material formulations and workshops are being expanded and tested in pilot formats at the HKB, PHBern and as part of the Circular Economy Forum, with initial feedback confirming the sustainability potential.  

À Bicyclette

The project is working with the bicycle shop ‘À Bicyclette’ to develop a management platform for a children's bicycle rental service, where bikes can be rented at low cost and in the right size to make cycling more accessible to families, especially those on a tight budget. By promoting longer use of the bikes, sustainable mobility and accompanying community activities such as a children's bike club, the project strengthens the environment, health and social participation.

Reconnect

Reconnect is developing a preventive education programme that teaches young people important life skills, fosters their mental health and at the same time while also reducing the workload of teachers. The three-month programme comprises six workshops for grad 7 students, in which young people learn key skills such as self-reflection, empathy and problem solving through practical and participatory methods.  

ImproVision

ImproVision is a practical teaching tool that uses flexible exercises to teach students of all levels improvisation as a creative, independent musical process, thereby promoting important skills such as independence, teamwork and creativity. The prototype, which is currently being tested in 21 schools, is expected to be available in several languages and formats from 2027 onwards and will firmly establish improvisation in the classroom in the long term.

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