Three companies and seven technical challenges for 25 students. That was the second edition of TechStarter, a six-month intensive program connecting schools with industrial companies in the region. At the ceremonial closing event, secondary school students presented their projects. There was no shortage of healthy confidence or lessons learned from mistakes. The event concluded with financial awards being presented to the successful participants.

The frame of an e-bike is tensioned on a pneumatic device, handlebars are bent in a testing rig to the verge of breaking, and brakes are made to withstand a simulated downpour. This is what an ordinary day looks like at the Engineering Test Institute in Jablonec nad Nisou. It is here, too, that decisions are made on whether new products will pass the safety filter and meet the demanding requirements of the market.

Until now, water analysis results often took several days. With a new method developed at the Institute for Nanomaterials, Advanced Technologies and Innovation at TUL (CXI), they are available within five hours. That speed can be absolutely crucial when it comes to taking effective measures to protect public health.

How can modern technologies help in paediatric oncology? How can artificial intelligence be used in the prevention of heart disease, or virtual reality in the training of healthcare professionals? These questions were explored by nearly 280 doctors, healthcare managers and representatives of technology companies from across the country at the TechCare 2026 conference, held in Liberec on 25 February.

The Rovinka mobile app is being developed at Liberec Regional Hospital as part of the HealthLabs4Value project and is intended to provide long term support for life with a spinal cord injury. The healthcare team created its concept in close cooperation with patients and caregivers so that it can serve as a guide to life situations, health and social care, preventive measures and risk related challenges.

How can digital technologies and artificial intelligence be integrated into business effectively and safely? Answers will be offered by the Behind the Scenes of Digitalisation conference, which will take place on Monday, 23 March at the 101010 Cultural Centre in Vratislavice, Liberec. The event is organised by the Regional Development Agency of the Liberec Region and is intended for small and medium sized enterprises, sole traders and representatives of public administration. Admission is free upon prior registration.