PPG announced the winners of the third edition of Universiada, a STEM education competition supporting chemistry-focused research among primary school students in Poland. The program, backed by a $37,000 grant, is organized in partnership with the Association of Chemical Industry Engineers and Technicians and the University of Wrocław.

Open to students aged 10–14, Universiada challenges teams of five to develop and present original chemistry projects. Finalists recently showcased their work at the University of Wrocław before a jury of industry experts and academics.

The top prize was awarded to students from Orląt Lwowskich Primary School No. 2 in Wołów for creating natural cosmetic formulations aimed at teenagers, including a moisturizing mask, sugar scrub, cream deodorant and fragrance mist.

Second place went to a team from John Paul II Primary School No. 2 in Świeradów Zdrój, which developed a bioplastic made from potato starch and glycerin as a sustainable alternative to traditional plastics.

The third-place project, from Cardinal Stefan Wyszyński Primary School No. 37 in Wrocław, focused on extracting natural dyes from onion skins, spinach and beets for use in inks and paints.

“This initiative helps young people explore chemistry's real-world applications and encourages their creativity and analytical skills,” said Maria Bogdańska, portfolio development manager for Central and Eastern Europe, architectural coatings.

A judge and professor at the University of Wrocław, Jarosław Panek, called the competition “an example of how education and practice can be effectively combined” and praised the students’ innovative thinking.

Universiada is part of broader global efforts to invest in STEM education and workforce development in fields related to coatings and manufacturing.