Tasting store opens in Jena

A new chapter of digital participation was opened today in Jena with the opening of the "ProbierLaden" in the heart of Jena's city center. As part of the Smart City project, it offers all citizens the opportunity to try out digital devices and applications in a relaxed atmosphere and to clarify everyday questions about the digital world in a practical and understandable way. The "ProbierLaden" is an important step towards bringing digital innovations not only into research and business, but also directly into people's everyday lives by teaching them basic digital skills - free of charge and accessible to everyone.

Feierliche Eröffnung des ProbierLadens mit (v.l.) OB Dr. Thomas Nitzsche, Dorothea Prell, Dr. Angela Anding und Sandra Laue.

© Stadt Jena

At the opening ceremony, Lord Mayor Dr. Thomas Nitzsche emphasized the importance of this project for Jena's future: "Jena is a city where the future has long had a home. The ProbierLaden is a crucial building block in this. Together with the Ernst Abbe Library and the Jena Digital Innovation Hub, it creates a space for people to meet, exchange ideas, learn and grow together. It shows that digital innovation doesn't just happen in companies and laboratories, but also in everyday life. This is how we are making Jena fit for the future."

The overall project manager of the Smart City project, Dorothea Prell, emphasized the relevance of digital participation for all citizens: "Digitalization is not an abstract concept, it is already part of everyday life. And this is exactly where the ProbierLaden wants to start and equip citizens with the skills they need for the digital world. That is the essence of our vision for the Smart City project - a smart Jena that works for everyone."

As a measure of the Smart City project funded by the Federal Ministry of Housing, Urban Development and Building, the taster store was made possible by the cooperation of numerous stakeholders. The team led by project coordinator Sandra Laue made a particularly significant contribution to its success. "What you can see and experience here today has grown conceptually and has gained a very special momentum with the appointment of the project manager Ms. Laue and ultimately the entire, very competent and diversely experienced team. The ProbierLaden is not a project that you can just manage on the side. It requires full concentration and a focus on the needs of the people who are interested," said Dr. Angela Anding, head of the adult education center, praising the intensive work and commitment behind the creation of the project.

Voller Erfolg: Viele Interessierte nehmen an Eröffnungsfeier am Engelplatz 14 teil

© Stadt Jena

During the opening, visitors were able to familiarize themselves with various digital devices and applications. The team of media educators is now available to answer individual questions and provide personal advice.

Opening hours of the trial store:
Tuesday & Thursday: 2-7 p.m.
Wednesday & Friday: 10 am - 3 pm
Every 1st & 3rd Saturday of the month: 10 am - 2 pm