Workshop - Envisioning Tech & Democracy: AI for social justice

You’ll learn how to use a laser cutter and engraver to personalize everyday objects and jewelry with powerful messages you create. Think keychains, phone stands, bracelets, or pins—each one carrying your vision for a better future.

We’ll talk about how AI is used in the world today, and imagine how it could be used to support fairness, equality, and human rights. Then, you’ll design your own message or symbol that reflects your hopes for justice—and bring it to life with laser engraving!

No experience needed—just your creativity and curiosity.

What you’ll do:

• Learn the basics of AI and how it affects our lives
• Talk about justice, democracy, and how tech can help
• Design your own message or symbol for change
• Use laser cutting tools to engrave your design on real objects

Who it’s for: Teens ages 11–24 who want to make cool stuff and think big about the future.

Date and duration: Tuesday March 3rd 2026, 13:00 - 16:00

Location: Super Fab Lab Oulu, Linnanmaa campus of the University of Oulu, in rooms TF 132-135, entrance from door 2T.

Street address: Erkki Koiso-Kanttilan katu 3

This event is part of the University of Oulu’s 2026 culture programme, and is connected to the following research and innovation projects led by the INTERACT research group:

• Democracy meets art: creative and narrative practices to support the development of democratic culture as part of critical change labs (Critical ChangeLab) is a European research and innovation project aimed at strengthening youth participation in society (https://criticalchangelab.eu/en/). Critical ChangeLab aims to create a solid knowledge base to support the development of democratic curricula using participatory, creative and critical approaches.
• Critical DataLit: Generation Z, data literacy and justice (Critical DataLit) is a research project funded by the Academy of Finland (https://www.oulu.fi/en/projects/critical-datalit-cultivating-justice-oriented-data-literacies-among-genz). Critical DataLit extends current citizenship education by introducing a social justice dimension to data literacy. The project involves working with young people aged 11-17 in different learning environments, such as schools and youth centres, using creative methods.
• ArtiFab: The project helps to bridge the digital gap in the Oulu region by organizing workshops that combine digital small-scale manufacturing and artistic expression. The topical combination supports the goals of Oulu's European Capital of Culture 2026 program and inspires those who have not previously been interested in technology to learn the skills of the future. The project is funded by European Structural and Investment Funds - European Social Fund (ESF).