UDE researchers bring science to the big screen
“Seeds of Science” celebrates its European premiere in Essen
- von Juliana Fischer
- 15.07.2026
How can science reach people who have little access to education? This is the central question explored in the film Seeds of Science, which celebrates its European premiere on 21 July at the Astra Theater in Essen. The feature film was created with significant contributions from Dr. Stéphane Kenmoe and Dr. Lisa Voskuhl, researchers at the UDE. It tells a story about education, equal opportunities, and the everyday lives of young women in remote villages in Sub-Saharan Africa. The European premiere is hosted by UDE in cooperation with the Center for Water and Environmental Research (ZWU). Following the screening, international guests will take part in a panel discussion on educational equity, access to resources, and the role of science. A limited number of free tickets is available for members of the University.
The film follows Aïcha, a 16-year-old girl from a remote village who discovers the world of science through a dedicated female teacher. Using simple scientific methods, she searches for solutions to everyday challenges – for example access to clean water or soap production. But when she pursues her dream of becoming a scientist, she faces resistance: her father wants her to marry and prevents her from continuing her education.
Although fictional, the story is inspired by the experiences of engineer and screenwriter Simone Dayang, as well as those of many other young women from northern Cameroon. Together with Dayang, Cameroonian-born UDE physicist Dr. Stéphane Kenmoe further developed the screenplay and supported the project as co-producer and co-screenwriter.
“Seeds of Science highlights the barriers many girls and women face in accessing education and pursuing scientific careers, while also demonstrating the transformative power of scientific thinking—even under challenging circumstances,” explains Kenmoe.
Dr. Lisa Voskuhl contributed her expertise in water treatment to the film’s scientific development. For a key scene, the microbiologist worked with the film team to develop a practical soap recipe using locally available materials. “The protagonist on the film poster is making soap using simple means. For me, this scene perfectly captures the film’s message: science often begins with simple ideas, yet it has the power to transform the lives of many people,” says Voskuhl.
For Kenmoe, the film is part of a long-term vision. Through his project “Making Science the Star”, the physicist combines science and filmmaking to strengthen a culture of science in African societies. His previous project “Science dans la Cité” received the Falling Walls Engagement Award in 2021.
“Sometimes it is the seemingly simple solutions that make the greatest difference—a water filter, a bar of soap, or access to a classroom. My goal is to highlight the value of science engagement in underserved communities and the importance of sparking curiosity and fostering scientific thinking. I want to encourage people to see science not only as a way to address everyday challenges, but also as an opportunity to shape their future,” says Kenmoe.
Seeds of Science addresses an issue that extends far beyond sub-Saharan Africa: worldwide, only around one third of graduates in STEM subjects are women. Stereotypes, a lack of role models and unequal educational opportunities continue to make it more difficult for many girls and women to pursue careers in science and technology.
Following the screening, a panel discussion hosted by the UDE and the Centre for Water and Environmental Research (ZWU) will provide a platform for further discussion of the film's key themes. Together with the audience, Raïssa Malu, Minister of State and Minister of National Education and New Citizenship of the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Prof. Dr. Karen Shire, Vice-Rector for University Culture, Diversity & International Affairs at the UDE, Priv.-Doz. Dr. Stéphane Kenmoe, Dr. Lisa Voskuhl (both UDE) and Dr. Luc Allemand (Earth-Humanity Coalition) will discuss educational equity, gender equality in STEM, science communication and access to essential resources.
Further information
UDE members (including students) can receive free tickets from a limited contingent. Registration is required. Link: https://indico.cvis.uni-due.de/event/51/
Tickets are also available through the regular advance sale: https://filmspiegel-essen.de/filme/2026-seeds-of-science/
European premiere of “Seeds of Science”
Tuesday, 21 July 2025
5:00 pm – Film screening (English dubbed version)
approx. 6:20 pm – Panel discussion
Venue: Astra Theater Essen