Asia and the Pacific Youth
Virtual Challenge 2024

Nuclear Science and Technology (NST) plays a significant role in the achievement of many of the UN Sustainable Developmental Goals and contributes directly to 9 of the 17 UN SDGs. IAEA TC Project RAS/0/091 Supporting Nuclear Science and Technology (NST) Education at the Secondary and Tertiary Level aims to strengthen and sustain regional cooperation in NST education at the tertiary and secondary levels. This initiative is vital to ensure the cultivation of the next generation of human resources adept at harnessing the potential of NST.

One of the outputs of the project is the enhancement of student’s comprehension of NST in the context of SDGs. This is achieved through innovative approaches, including the implementation of a blended learning system. Blended learning is an educational approach that combines traditional in-person classroom instruction with online or digital learning activities. This approach seeks to leverage the strengths of both face-to-face and online learning to create a more flexible and effective learning experience.

In the rapidly evolving world of education, it is essential to engage students in innovative and captivating ways to enhance their learning experience. Through the project, IAEA had organized video competitions for students to showcase their understanding of how NST contribute to selected SDGs topics such as Food Security, Human Health, Environmental Protection. Minecraft Education, a popular sandbox video game, offers a unique platform for fostering creativity, critical thinking, and collaboration among students.

First place winners of each category of the competition will be awarded an all expense* paid for an exclusive study tour to the enchanting land of Japan!

Each group of winners will be accompanied by the mentoring teacher who will also be provided all expense paid study tour.

Second and third place winners will also receive special prizes from the Organizer.

* Expenses covered are (i) pre-paid ticket from the nearest international airport from the country of origin to Narita Airport; (ii) paid accommodation during the whole duration of the study tour; and (iii) paid meals or allowance for meals as per UN rate at the location of the study tour.

1. Registration: Schools and students interested in participating need to register for the competition before the dateline. Registration details, theme challenge and competition rules are linked here.
2. Building Phase: Teams will have a designated period to design and build their creations based on the theme and educational objectives.
3. Judging Phase: Each competition entry will be judged based on creativity, originality, complexity, and realism of the build.
4. Finalist Phase: Selected finalists will present their creation to the judges, explaining how it aligns with the theme and educational goals. A Q&A session will follow each presentation.
5. Public Voting: Video of the finalist will be opened to public voting. Public votes carry 20% of the total mark.
6. Announcement of Winners