PPG has entered into a two-year partnership with Dutch education nonprofit Centrum JongerenCommunicatie Chemie (C3), which introduces children and young people to chemistry and life sciences.

With a $163,000 (145,000 euros) PPG grant, the partnership aims to support Dutch students and inspire them for school and career choices in the fields of science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM).

"Together with C3, we want to build the next generation of diverse and innovative STEM leaders," said Justus Tichelman, PPG market director, trade Benelux. "As a science and technology company, we know how important a skilled STEM workforce is for creating stronger, more sustainable communities. That's why we are supporting C3’s online student platform exactwatjezoekt.nl and ensuring that students can get extra practice in science subjects."

Through the online platform and in the classroom, the partners will introduce students to STEM subjects and career opportunities. PPG also will be the main sponsor of the multi-day conference for chemistry teachers that C3 organizes annually.

"All education institutions need students who have made a good study choice,” said Lutgarde Buydens, C3 board chair. “Young people have to choose a direction early on, when their perception of the world is miles away from their future studies let alone profession. Thanks to this partnership, C3 has the means to realize much-needed education support across the board, specifically for chemistry, life sciences and process technology. It is essential that girls and young people from disadvantaged communities are also addressed."