World Internet Conference: BIEA points to youth engagement as key for a sustainable future
BIEA Shining Stars Feature Story
Dr David Lamper share BIEA’s vision on the future of AI and the Internet at the World Internet Conference
On November 21, 2024, the prestigious World Internet Conference commenced in Wuzhen, China, drawing global attention as a leading platform for dialogue on technology, public welfare, and sustainable development. The event brought together world leaders, industry experts, scholars, and representatives of international organizations to explore the transformative power of the internet in shaping a better future.
At the Internet Public Welfare and Charity Forum, Dr. David Lamper, Chairman of the British International Education Association (BIEA), delivered a thought-provoking speech highlighting the role of young people as key drivers of technological innovation and the future workforce.
In his address, Dr. Lamper emphasised, “Young people are not only the driving force behind current technological innovation but also determine the future strength of the global science and technology workforce. Their engagement and interests are pivotal in shaping technology’s role in society, particularly in areas such as career development, well-being, sustainability, and cultural exchange.”
Dr. Lamper outlined four key technology-related themes that resonate most with young people:
- Technology and Career Development
Young people are eager to understand how emerging fields like AI, robotics, biotechnology, and green technologies will shape their future career paths. They seek education systems that equip them with practical skills such as programming, data analysis, and interdisciplinary learning to prepare for these industries. - Technology and Well-being
While digital tools enhance communication and learning, young people are increasingly aware of challenges like screen addiction and cyberbullying. They seek solutions that position technology as a positive force for improving mental and physical well-being. - Technology and Environmental Sustainability
Climate change and environmental challenges resonate strongly with this generation. Young people are particularly interested in technologies that promote renewable energy, sustainable agriculture, and eco-friendly innovation to create a healthier planet. - Technology and Cultural Harmony
Technology has become a bridge for global cultural exchange, enabling collaboration and creative sharing. Young people value innovations that balance openness with cultural preservation, ensuring mutual benefit and respect for diversity.
Dr David Lamper and fellow panellists with actor Qiao Bing at the World Internet Conference Charity Forum
Dr. Lamper also highlighted BIEA’s mission to empower young people through STEM education, encouraging them to engage with technology as a solution to global challenges. He called for increased international collaboration to nurture the next generation of innovators and problem-solvers.
The forum featured impactful contributions from a host of distinguished speakers, including actor and host Qiao Shan, actress Wu Yue, and broadcaster Hai Xia, who shared inspiring stories of public welfare initiatives. Leaders such as Luo Haiyue (ByteDance CSR), Yao Yao (Alibaba Foundation), Tang Weiwei (Xiaohongshu), and Christoph Stückelberger (Globethics Foundation) presented their achievements in charity and sustainability, alongside Ms Liu Hongyan, Secretary-General of the China Internet Development Foundation, who unveiled the latest developments in internet philanthropy.
A Platform for Global Impact
As an internationally recognized leader in education and innovation, BIEA’s presence at this influential conference underscored its commitment to fostering STEM skills, sustainability, and technological literacy among young people. Dr. Lamper’s insights resonated with attendees, highlighting the need to empower youth to drive positive change in an increasingly digital world.
The success of the forum was a testament to the tireless efforts of the organising team, who worked diligently for months to bring together thought leaders, visionaries, and changemakers from across the globe.
BIEA will continue to collaborate with global partners to inspire the next generation, leveraging technology and education to address critical challenges and build a sustainable future for all.
#WuzhenSummit #BIEA #YouthEmpowerment #TechnologyForGood #Sustainability #InternetPublicWelfare
Newslinks: https://tinyurl.com/2ds7tpxy
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Ellison Scholarship Oxford University: High School BIEA STEM Champion through to semi final
BIEA Shining Stars Feature Story
Hiran and Daniel presented their project to judges at the 2024 international final.
Hiran Raghavan and Daniel Cross, both Sixth Formers at Cheam High School, have made an impressive impact with their work on sustainable fashion as part of BIEA’s 2024 STEM project. Under the team name Carbon Cancel Culture, Hiran and Daniel explored innovative textile solutions aimed at reducing waste and promoting sustainability in the fashion industry. Their project combined jute with synthetic hair, creating a unique, eco-friendly composite material suitable for PPE and other applications.
Hiran’s dedication to sustainable innovation has earned her recognition as a semi-finalist for the prestigious Ellison Scholarship. If successful, she will be the first student from Cheam High School to attend Oxford University, a milestone that has already inspired her school and local community.
In addition to her project work, Hiran represented young voices on sustainability at the BIEA Youth STEM Forum 2024, where she spoke to an international audience about the importance of sustainable practices in fashion. Her insights on responsible consumption inspired students worldwide to rethink their relationship with fashion and reduce waste.
Thandie Banda, an award-winning chemistry teacher and mentor to Hiran, praised the students’ efforts under this year’s theme, Sustainable Fashion: Threads of the Future. “The 2024 theme encouraged students to rethink fashion consumption and find innovative ways to reduce fashion waste. Hiran and Daniel have mobilised the whole school to take action against fast fashion, sharing their knowledge by holding STEM showcases and speaking at assemblies. Their dedication has brought awareness to the issue beyond the school boundary, inspiring the wider community to make a change.”
Hiran and Daniel’s journey in the BIEA competition has not only showcased their commitment to environmental solutions but also positioned them as role models for younger students. Their work embodies the spirit of BIEA’s mission to inspire innovation and drive sustainable progress.
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Destination Harvard
BIEA Shining Stars Feature Story
Guridit with Nikki Collins, CEO of BIEA at the Award Ceremony in London
Gurdit Singh, a remarkable Sixth Former from Featherstone High School, has had an extraordinary journey since participating in the 2023 BIEA STEM competition.
His project, Project Ecosystem, focused on addressing sustainability challenges in the city of Aleppo, which was heavily impacted by the devastating earthquake in 2023 in Turkey and Syria. By proposing innovative solutions in urban design, environmental conservation, and technological resilience, Gurdit’s project demonstrated both his creativity and commitment to global issues, helping him secure full scholarship offers from top U.S. universities, including Harvard, Princeton, Rice, and Georgia Tech.
Reflecting on his experience with BIEA, Gurdit expressed immense gratitude, noting how the competition provided him with the confidence and platform to showcase his ideas. This experience became a central part of his applications and interviews, distinguishing him as a standout candidate. “Presenting my project in front of esteemed scientists and engineers was incredibly inspiring,” Gurdit said. “BIEA gave me the opportunity to think outside my comfort zone and address real-world problems.”
Dr. Holmes, Head of STEM at BIEA, highlighted the unique aspects of the competition’s 2023 theme on city sustainability, stating, “This theme encouraged students to investigate cities outside their usual perspectives, prompting deeper and more meaningful explorations of global challenges.”
In 2024, Gurdit returned to volunteer at the BIEA STEM competition final, sharing his experiences with students from around the world. He became a role model, inspiring younger participants and his community with his story of perseverance and dedication. His presence and guidance exemplified the spirit of BIEA’s mission to nurture future leaders in STEM.
BIEA is proud to celebrate Gurdit’s success and looks forward to seeing him make a difference as he embarks on his journey at Harvard.
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