SU Tartu 2024: The Magical Kratt Meets the Digital World

Have you heard about Kratt, the legendary magical Estonian creature? If you are curious now and also like technology and sustainability, then don’t hesitate and apply for AEGEE-Tartu’s Summer University “Lord of SUstainia: Fellowship of the Kratt”! It takes place from 5^th to 17^th August 2024.

GT: What is the main topic of your SU this year?
AEGEE-Tartu: It’s a symbiosis between the digital new world and connecting to our roots and being sustainable. When choosing our theme we were really inspired by the Solarpunk movement.

GT: Why did you choose the topic?
AEGEE-Tartu: We got hooked on the idea of Kratt after it was first mentioned – this ancient mythological creature in Estonian folklore. We also have members who are knowledgeable in technology and then we came upon the idea to combine the digital world with mythology, connecting to nature and survival in the form of a post-apocalyptic adventure.

GT: What will be the thematic highlights?
AEGEE-Tartu: Amongst other interactive cultural, digital, eco-responsibility-themed workshops, here are our picks: A foraging and survival workshop in the woods, where we do a very Estonian thing – go wander in the woods looking for stuff. We’ll enter the digital age by building a radio together and from the mythological world, we will create our own Kratt – a mystical helper built from junk from our folklore.

GT: Which cities and landmarks will you visit?
AEGEE-Tartu: We’re starting in our hometown Tartu, where one of the highlights will be a day in Taevaskoja – a beautiful place with an ancient river and sandstone outcrops a bit away from town. Then we’re moving to a traditional Estonian countryside cottage, for a cosy bonfire and outdoor movie night. We’ll be making a stop in Viljandi – a small quaint town full of culture and ending the SU in our beautiful capital of Tallinn.

GT: What else will you do for fun?
AEGEE-Tartu: Some of our highlights: A post-apocalyptic party, pub-crawls in Tartu and Tallinn, an outdoor movie night – and an Estonian wedding party! But there will be time for just enjoying nature and each other’s company.

GT: How much is the fee and what is included in it?
AEGEE-Tartu: For 198 Euros you’ll get to see three of our amazing cities and a charming countryside farm. We’ll supply you with two meals per day and you’ll get to experience our carefully picked and organised social activities and workshops, designed to bring people together and make everlasting memories.

GT: How much is the optional fee and what is included in it?
AEGEE-Tartu: For 50 Euros you’ll get to visit an discovery-filled interactive AHHAA science centre and climb among the treetops at an adventure park.

GT: Who are the ideal participants?
AEGEE-Tartu: They’re a fan of nature and ready to explore the forests and wilderness of Estonia. Try new things and explore our culture with their fellow adventurers. They are compassionate and open-hearted, wishing to know more while also sharing stories and experiences.

GT: What makes AEGEE-Tartu special?
AEGEE-Tartu: We are one of the northernmost locals in AEGEE and the most northern summer university this year! You might not end up in Estonia often, but you’re guaranteed to fall in love with our land full of forests and bogs. Tartu is the European Capital of Culture this year. Also our local is celebrating its 30th birthday in the autumn!

GT: Where can interested people find out more about your SU?
AEGEE-Tartu: You can check our event in MyAegee! In case of any questions, write to us on Instagram @aegee.tartu or the email address su@aegee-tartu.ee. Don’t hesitate to get in touch!

GT: Anything you would like to add? Do you have a message to potential applicants?
AEGEE-Tartu: We’re so excited to meet you!