Frugal Innovation Research Event (FIRE) Program

Abstract

This chapter addresses the evolving role of education in solving complex problems, characterized by environmental, social, and economic disparities. We hereby contemplate on the recent development of modern academic approaches, often missing the opportunity to equip students with the skills required to seek and address real-world challenges effectively. In specific, we critique the role and development of education systems for its emphasis on extrinsic rewards, the limited integration of critical thinking, and the neglect of holistic character development of students. To contrast this development, we propose a co-creation-based educational approach via the Frugal Innovation Research Event (FIRE) program, using frugal engineering and design thinking to foster students’ skills, creativity, and personal growth within the scientific community. The program integrates intercultural and interdisciplinary perspectives to foster co-creative innovation, enabling the discovery of new problems and tasks by challenging existing paradigms and addressing real-world complexities beyond the scope of established scientific approaches. By embracing local resource constraints, the program highlights human creativity and unlocks innovative potential, turning complex problems into practical, real-world solutions. This program is designed for students, but actually everyone, who is committed to becoming their most authentic and truest self, who courageously explore life, and who joyfully celebrate the power of innovation, diversity, and the full breadth of the human experience. We hope to inspire and enthusiast a large community, that is willing to embrace complex problems as a fertile ground for growth.