2021 International Youth Research Competition on UN SDGs

In alignment with UN’s aim for involving youth in achieving the 17 SDGs by 2030, the Organizing Committee sets forth the following purposes for this competition:

Empowering youth around the world;

Bringing awareness to the SDGs both in the communities and on a global level;

Providing a platform that amplifies the voice of youth;

Encouraging and facilitating international youth collaboration.

Position

The 2021 International Youth Research Competition on UN SDGs is a guided competition. Eligible youth from around the globe are welcome to register. The Organizing Committee is committed to providing candidates with all necessary training and support throughout the 4-month competition period. There are no fees associated with the competition or related training. The competition is free for all. The Organizing Committee may consider offering support to candidates in the areas with limited computer or internet access.

Timeline

Registration: May 1 to June 30, 2021.

Competition: 16 weeks. July 19 to November 12, 2021. (1-week training, 14-week action research, 1-week showcase) Candidates are advised to dedicate a minimum of 8 hours per week.

Eligibility

Youth between 13 and 18 years old;

Passionate about achieving the SDGs and a better future of the world;

Respectful to scientific principles, truth, facts, and data;

Strong desire for collaboration with youth from different cultures;

Able to communicate in English.

Selection Process

Registered candidates will be interviewed individually. Parents and/or guardians are recommended to participate in the interview process.

A maximum of 100 candidates worldwide will be selected to participate in the competition, approximately 16 students per continent/region.

Final Product

Research article – scholarly writing in APA format;

Action report – a summary of the team’s actions taken;

Showcase act – presenting team learnings using visual, performing, or multidisciplinary art forms.