Schwerin: Young people revolutionize technology in the hacking laboratory!

Schwerin: Young people revolutionize technology in the hacking laboratory!

A place of innovation and creativity flourishes in the Technology and Commercial Center (TGZ) in Schwerin. The “hack lab”, led by Gerd Kant, software developer and committed board member of the Schweriner Hackspace e.V. association, impresses with a wide range of topics, ranging from hardware and software to data protection and social developments in the digital world. With around 60 members, the Hacklabor offers a platform for people of all ages interested in technology who are enthusiastic about digitalization and technology.

The “Jugend hackt Lab”, a nationwide network that addresses young people between the ages of 12 and 18, has particularly come into the spotlight. Every third Saturday of the month, creative youth meet in the hack lab to develop new ideas, take part in workshops and learn how to use technology meaningfully and critically. A highlight was the last workshop entitled “#unplugTrump”, which dealt with social networks and their business models. Questions such as the handling of personal data and being informed about alternative solutions to popular platforms such as WhatsApp, TikTok and YouTube were discussed. With the support of mentors, participants were able to research and test alternative tools in small groups.

Focus on data protection and self-determination

The #unplugTrump workshop, which took place on May 17, 2025, dealt intensively with the control of user data by large technology companies and also presented alternatives such as free messengers and decentralized social networks. The focus here was on the digital self-determination of young people. The Hacklabor not only encourages active participation in socially relevant projects, but also offers an environment in which the young participants can inspire each other and develop creatively.

At a time when digitalization and the use of AI are increasingly penetrating the education sector, the handling of personal data and data protection is becoming a central issue. As TechZeitgeist's report shows, not only are students and teachers caught in the crossfire of progress, but equity issues and ethical concerns are also rising. The need to protect personal data is becoming increasingly pressing as schools often struggle to keep up with GDPR requirements. There is an urgent need to work on a better framework to protect the rights of students and their data.

A look into the future of digital education

The discussion about AI learning platforms and the change in the education sector are important topics that the “Hacklabor” would also like to address. Given the sometimes unfair conditions when it comes to access to digital technology, it is crucial that both government and private actors work together to find a fair and transparent solution. The dialogue about data protection and digitalization in schools will therefore be a central element in designing a positive and future-proof learning environment.

In the podcast “You should be…” Gerd Kant gives in-depth insights into his projects and the work in the hack lab together with Andreas Lußky and Claus Oellerking and shows how important it is to give younger generations the tools for a critical approach to technology.

For all technology-loving young people and adults, the hack lab is not only a place for learning, but also for inspiration and creative development in a digital future.