Program
Program Goals
Spark Scientific Curiosity
To ignite the desire to solve global problems through a science-based and structured project development approach.
Build Research Skills
To strengthen students' research, critical thinking, and prototype development skills — skills that will extend far beyond the program.
Bring Different Perspectives Together
To bring together students interested in science and environmental responsibility to seek solutions from different disciplines.
Personal Mentorship
To provide one-on-one guidance to students at every stage of the project process — not only during the competition, but at every step.
Leadership Experience
To give students leadership, communication, and collaboration experience that goes far beyond a single project presentation.
Build a Lasting Ecosystem
To create a sustainable science and innovation ecosystem where alumni return as mentors in later years and knowledge is passed from generation to generation.
Five Disciplines
YIP encourages interdisciplinary thinking. Projects may span multiple fields or focus deeply on a single area.
Environment & Sustainability
Climate change, waste management, energy solutions, water systems
Biology & Health Sciences
Biology, medicine, genetics, public health
Chemistry & Material Science
New materials, chemical solutions, sustainable materials
Physics & Engineering
Mechanical systems, electricity, robotics, energy systems
Social Impact
Economics-based solutions, education, behavioral approaches, social systems
Program Calendar
Two festivals frame a year-long process of mentorship, research, and prototype development.
YouthFest
The opening event sets the tone for the entire year. Students meet one another, form their groups, and leave by the end of the day with a defined research question and an assigned mentor. The day is filled with intensive activities designed to spark curiosity and collaboration.
- Seminar — Opening talk on the scientific method and sustainable science by an RC alumnus or university faculty guest speaker
- Debate Sessions — Pre-shared topics, assigned groups, structured debate format, and announced winners
- Case Solving — Groups of 2–4 solve field-specific cases based on research and prior knowledge; AI tools are not allowed
- Group Formation — Students form their own groups based on interactions during the day; remaining students are placed according to their interests
- Project Idea Development — Each group defines its research topic, hypothesis, and direction
- Closing Remarks — The mentorship structure and upcoming project calendar are explained
ImpactFest
After a year of research, iteration, and mentorship, groups present their completed projects to an expert jury. The atmosphere becomes a lively ceremony combining a science fair and a celebration; awards and certificates recognize every participant's effort.
- Opening Remarks — Welcome, congratulations, and a summary of the year's journey
- Poster Presentations — Groups take turns presenting their own posters and visiting other stands; the jury evaluates teamwork, organization, scope, and public speaking
- Jury Evaluation — Rubric-based scoring in four award categories by expert judges
- Award Ceremony — 1st and 2nd place awards in each category, along with Certificates of Honor, are presented
- Certificate Distribution — All participants who complete the program receive a Certificate of Participation
- Closing Video — Highlights from the year and a look ahead to the next cycle