Inspiring the Next Generation: Hong Kong Youth AI Master Applied Tech Innovation Awards Now Open

The Hong Kong Applied Science and Technology Research Institute (ASTRI) is set to spark the creativity of secondary school students with the ‘Hong Kong Youth AI Master Applied Tech Innovation Awards.’ Co-organised by the Hong Kong Academy of Gifted Education (HKAGE), this exciting competition aims to enhance students’ understanding of artificial intelligence (AI) while encouraging them to tackle real-world challenges through AI technology.

Open to all secondary school students across Hong Kong, the inaugural competition focuses on the theme ‘AI for Better Living’.  It seeks to inspire participants to explore practical applications of AI in their daily lives, fostering critical thinking, problem-solving, and creativity.

Students from S.1-3 and S.4-6 will compete in Junior and Senior categories, respectively. Each team will comprise an instructor and 2 to 6 students from the same school. The first round requires teams to submit a 3-minute video proposal  showcasing their innovative ideas related to the competition theme.  Registration is now open until 5pm on 17 January 2025, with proposal submissions due by 5 pm on 28 February 2025. Shortlisted teams will be announced in late March, with finalists presenting their projects on competition day, 17 May 2025.

Exciting Rewards Await
With over HK$70,000 in total prizes, the awards offer strong incentives for budding scientists. Winning teams will receive trophies, certificates, and scholarships supported by the Bright Future Charitable Foundation. The Champion team in each category can earn a scholarship of up to HK$10,000. Additional awards include the ‘A.Incubator Award’, recognising schools that actively promote student participation, and the ‘Most Innovative and Creative Award’, that demonstrates exceptional creative thinking skills, both offering a 65-inch TV sponsored by Contex to the winning school or organisation.

Future-ready Skills
As the world rapidly evolves in the age of AI, it’s crucial for students to prepare for future career opportunities. Research indicates that AI-savvy professionals may see salary increases of up to 28% as AI technologies become more prevalent in the workplace. Furthermore, employers are increasingly prioritizing soft skills—such as critical thinking and creativity—over traditional programming skills.

A recent study also reveals that AI could save professionals up to 200 hours of work annually, significantly enhancing productivity. By integrating AI into education, students can develop the skills necessary to thrive in this new landscape and harness the vast opportunities that AI presents.

ASTRI will hold a series of five hybrid AI educational seminars, inviting industry experts to share AI application in various sectors such as FinTech, education, public utilities, health monitoring, and elderly care. 

The Hong Kong Youth AI Master Applied Tech Innovation Awards is more than just a competition; it’s an opportunity for students to innovate, collaborate, and prepare for a future where AI plays an integral role in shaping society.
 

For more details and enrollment, please visit: EdTech For STEAM (astri.org)