Research projects

Gen Z (individuals born between 1995 and 2009) is the future – as citizens, consumers, and employees. However, Gen Z keeps their cards close to the chest.                                                                                                                              

The success of online shopping, coupled with the recent impact of COVID, is putting pressure on Flemish retail and the retail sector. This has direct consequences for store owners, who must reorganize themselves as pickup points for online shoppers or even close their stores.    

Media outlets in Flanders are facing challenges in capturing the interest of Gen Z in news. They seem to be losing connection with young audiences. NewZ Lab is exploring possibilities to engage this demographic. It focuses on the current media consumption habits of young people.

From conversations with partners in the construction sector, it became evident that there is untapped potential for integrating STEM into the construction industry.                                                                                                                    

A group of young people aged 14 and above will collaborate on spotlighting the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) through an artistic-technological intervention in their city/town. A program will be established in collaboration with local youth organizations.                   

Research and Expertise Center Vital Cities identifies the principles of child and youth-friendly heritage through appreciative inquiry.                                                                                                                                                 

In this project, we will explore the potential of utilizing the River Leie as a heat source to efficiently and intelligently warm future buildings of Howest and the city of Kortrijk.                                                                                                  

This project aims to introduce 'Oral Literature for Development' (OL4D) as a new paradigm, based on the belief that culture and creativity are central to the development of all people.                                                                                                

For cities, keeping the energy bill affordable is a challenge. Howest is assisting Kortrijk city in this regard. Through pilot projects in Kortrijk Weide and Transfo Zwevegem, the Smart Technology Energy lab is developing a data architecture for smart control of energy systems. 

This project proposal aims to enable an affordable energy transition for low-voltage customers in a broader area, such as a neighborhood.