A forum for young science talents from across the Asia-Pacific wrapped up July 16 in Taipei City, with 88 junior high schoolers and educators from home and abroad taking part in the six-day event aimed at fostering cultural exchanges and strengthening students’ problem-solving skills.
The seminar was organized by the K-12 Education Administration under the Ministry of Education in collaboration with Taipei-based National Taiwan Normal University. Attendees hailed from 11 countries and territories including Japan, India, Malaysia, Russia, Thailand and Vietnam.
Themed Creativity for a Better Society, the forum comprised a series of cultural tours, hands-on projects and talks in such areas as astronomy, physics and virtual reality technology. Activities spanned a lecture on the possibility of extraterrestrial life and visits to Huashan 1914 Creative Park, Taipei Astronomical Museum and National Taiwan Science Education Center.
A major highlight was the group project Future Amusement Park for All. Participants were teamed up with partners from different countries and invited to present creative ideas for a cutting-edge entertainment complex complete with rides and amenities.
The fourth edition of the annual forum also included a two-day seminar for the 22 participating teachers. Discussions focused on incorporating creativity and cultural characteristics into science course design and materials.
According to the MOE, the forum provides a unique platform for talented youths to broaden their international horizons and gain insights into emerging disciplines and technologies. The event also helps foster international awareness of Taiwan’s science programs for gifted students, the ministry said. (CPY-E)
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