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Global Young Scholar Challenge 2026 (GYSC)

Introduction

Welcome to the Global Young Scholar Challenge (GYSC) 2026.
We understand that the journey of science begins with a spark of curiosity and leads to real-world innovation. That is why this competition is uniquely designed with two distinct tracks:

1. For Junior Students (The Discoverer Track): A fun, engaging exploration of science where curiosity leads the way.
2. For Senior Students (The Scholar Track): A rigorous academic and
entrepreneurial challenge focused on Deep Tech in Medical & Wellness
Innovation.

Unlike traditional exams that test rote memorization, we assess a student's ability to learn, comprehend, apply new knowledge, and present innovative solutions. We invite students from Hong Kong, Macau, Thailand, and across Asia to join us.

The 2026 Theme: "Deep Tech in Medical & Wellness Innovation. "

This year, we focus on the intersection of Artificial Intelligence and Healthcare. Participants will explore this theme through materials tailored to their age group.

For Senior Scholars (Secondary Level), the scope of activities and assessment includes:

● 1. AI-Powered Research & Paper Excellence

○ AI-Enhanced Literature Synthesis: Mastering AI tools to analyze global medical databases and identify research gaps with high precision.

○ Predictive Data Analytics: Utilizing AI for advanced statistical modeling in clinical and laboratory research.

○ Scientific Writing Optimization: Implementing AI to refine manuscript structure, language, and technical accuracy for high-impact international journals.

● 2. Deep Tech in Medical & Wellness Innovation

○ Smart Product Development: Leveraging AI to optimize the extraction of bioactive compounds from herbs for high-efficacy Cosmeceuticals and Functional Products.

○ Next-Gen Medical Devices: In-depth exploration of AI integration in medical instrumentation for real-time diagnostics, remote monitoring, and precision treatment.

○ Health-Tech Trend Integration: Staying ahead of global shifts in Deep Tech and the exponentially growing healthcare technology market.

● 3. Medical Entrepreneurship & Startup Scale-up

○ From Researcher to Entrepreneur: Developing a commercial mindset to transform laboratory breakthroughs into viable market solutions.

○ Innovation Strategy: Navigating intellectual property (IP) pathways and regulatory frameworks for medical innovations.

○ Venture Readiness: Pitching and scaling Health-Tech Startups through strategic partnerships and investment opportunities.

Categories & Eligibility

To ensure students are not intimidated by difficult content, the competition is split into two completely different streams:

 

CriteriaThe Junior Discoverer ChallengeThe Senior Scholar Challenge
Target LevelGrade 4-6 (Primary)Grade 7-12 (Secondary)
Vibe & Goal“Fun & Curious” Focus on reading interesting science stories and finding facts.“Academic, Innovative & Entrepreneurial” Focus on critical thinking, data analysis, and business strategy.
Reading Material“Science Discovery Readings” (Colorful, magazine-style articles)“Deep Tech & Medical Research Papers” (Structured journals and industry reports)

Note: Students are ranked strictly against peers in their own grade.

Competition Timeline

Phase 1: Registration

Phase 2: The Heat Round (Qualifying) – Online

● Format: Online Open-Book Assessment.

● Logistics: Entirely online to ensure low cost and easy access for international students.

● Material Release: Reading materials are released via the student portal 2 weeks before the exam.

● Certificates: All certificates for the Heat Round will be sent as digital files to ensure efficiency.

Phase 3: The Global Finals

● Location: Thailand

● Format: Project Presentation & Defense.

○ Participants from each country will compete by presenting their work/research based on the Heat Round themes.

○ Esteemed judges will score the presentations and make the final decision.

● Eligibility: Top 30% of winners from the Heat Round.

Exam Format (Heat Round)

A. Junior Discoverer Stream (Primary Level)

● Duration: 60 Minutes

● Questions: 30 Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)

● Scoring: Total 100 Points

● Assessment Focus: Fact Retrieval, Vocabulary, Concept Application.

B. Senior Scholar Stream (Secondary Level)

● Duration: 75 Minutes

● Questions:

○ Part A: 30 Multiple Choice Questions (60% of score) – Focusing on Medical Tech knowledge and Data Analytics.

○ Part B: 2 Short Essay/Case Study Questions (40% of score) – Focusing on Entrepreneurship and Innovation Strategy.

Part B: Essay Assessment Rubric (Senior Stream)

The essay section assesses scientific reasoning and commercial mindset:

1. Evidence-Based Argumentation (40%): Explicitly citing data or theories from the provided Deep Tech materials.

2. Logical Reasoning & Analysis (40%): Identifying cause-and-effect relationships in medical research or business logic.

3. Clarity & Precision (20%): Concise, scientific, and professional terminology.

Awards & Scoring Mechanism

To ensure fairness, the GYSC employs a Percentile Ranking System.

● Gold Award (Top 10%): Digital Certificate + Medal + Invitation to Finals in Thailand

● Silver Award (Next 20%): Digital Certificate + Medal + Invitation to Finals in Thailand

● Bronze Award (Next 30%): Digital Certificate + Medal

● Merit Award (Next 20%): Digital Certificate of Merit

● Participation: Digital Certificate of Participation

Global Champion Cash Prize

● The absolute top scorer in each category will be awarded a Cash Scholarship of USD 100 (or equivalent).

Rules & Regulations

1. Academic Integrity: The Heat Round is an open-book exam; however, students must work independently. Collaboration, use of AI generation tools (ChatGPT to write essays), or parental assistance is strictly prohibited. Plagiarism checks will be conducted.

2. Device Requirement: Students must have a computer/tablet with a stable internet connection and a working camera for invigilation (Zoom/Proctoring software).

3. Disqualification: Any violation of integrity rules results in immediate disqualification.

4. Final Decision: The decision of the GYSC Judging Panel is final.

GYS GLOBAL ROUND : JANUARY 2027 THAILAND

Details: To be confirmed

Our board members

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Soodkhet Pojprapai

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Soodkhet Pojprapai

Judge / Panelist: Assoc. Prof. Dr. Soodkhet Pojprapai Associate Professor, Institute of Engineering & President of Suratec Co., Ltd.

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Soodkhet Pojprapai is a highly accomplished materials scientist and engineering leader with a profound expertise in advanced ceramics and sensor technologies. He holds a Ph.D. in Materials Science and Engineering from the University of New South Wales (UNSW), Australia, supported by a Thai Government Scholarship, as well as Master’s and Bachelor’s degrees in Engineering from Chulalongkorn University.

Currently serving as an Associate Professor in the School of Ceramic Engineering at Suranaree University of Technology (SUT), Dr. Pojprapai also heads the university's Data Storage Science and Technology Research Unit. Bridging the gap between academic research and commercial industry, he is the President of Suratec Co., Ltd., demonstrating his strong capability in translating scientific innovation into real-world applications. His international academic footprint includes serving as an Adjunct Lecturer at UNSW, Australia.

Dr. Pojprapai’s research is at the cutting edge of materials engineering. His primary interests lie in the characterization of mechanical and electrical properties of electroceramics, piezoelectric, multiferroic, and ferromagnetic materials. Furthermore, he is deeply involved in applied research concerning piezoelectric energy harvesting and wearable sensor applications.

With his extensive background teaching advanced engineering materials and his leadership in both university research and corporate technology sectors, Dr. Pojprapai brings a rigorous, highly technical, and industry-focused perspective to the judging panel.
Dr. Yanwarut Chiraatthakit

Dr. Yanwarut Chiraatthakit

Judge / Panelist: Dr. Yanwarut Chiraatthakit
Biomedical Scientist, Educator & Co-founder of the Association of Future Biology and Medical Technology

Dr. Yanwarut Chiraatthakit (widely known as Dr. Jack) is a distinguished biomedical scientist, dedicated educator, and visionary leader committed to advancing medical technology and nurturing the next generation of global scientists. He holds both a Ph.D. in Biomedical Sciences and a Bachelor of Science from Suranaree University of Technology.

With an extensive background in academia and hands-on research, Dr. Chiraatthakit has served as a Special Instructor at the Institute of Medicine (Suranaree University of Technology) and the Faculty of Allied Health Sciences (Nakhonratchasima College). His advanced laboratory expertise is highly specialized, encompassing piezoelectric biosensors, scanning and transmission electron microscopy (SEM & TEM), histopathology, and high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC).

Beyond the laboratory, Dr. Chiraatthakit is a prominent figure in science communication, youth mentorship, and medical innovation. He is the Lead Coordinator for the Thailand International Biology & Medical Olympiad Challenge (TIBMOC) and the founder of the Next Generation Global Scientists Initiative and the International Youth Research Collaboration Center for Health Science and Medical Technology. Furthermore, he actively serves as a consultant for medical innovation startups and a research advisor for high school and pre-university students.

His diverse experience—ranging from cutting-edge biomedical laboratory training to global scientific mentorship and entrepreneurship—makes him an invaluable asset to the judging panel. He brings a comprehensive, highly analytical, and forward-thinking perspective to evaluating innovative scientific projects.
Dr. Sanong Suksaweang, MT, MS, Ph.D.

Dr. Sanong Suksaweang, MT, MS, Ph.D.

Judge / Panelist: Dr. Sanong Suksaweang, MT, MS, Ph.D.
Director of Translational Medicine Program & Head of International Affairs, Institute of Medicine, Suranaree University of Technology

Dr. Sanong Suksaweang is a distinguished medical scientist and academic leader with extensive expertise in pathobiology, experimental pathology, and translational medicine. He holds a Ph.D. in Pathobiology and an M.S. in Experimental and Molecular Pathology (awarded Master Student of the Year) from the University of Southern California (USC), USA. He also holds a B.Sc. in Medical Technology from Khon Kaen University and is certified in Automated Immunohistochemistry and In Situ Hybridization Staining.

Currently, Dr. Suksaweang serves as the Director of the Translational Medicine Program and the Head of International Affairs at the Institute of Medicine, Suranaree University of Technology (SUT) in Thailand. His foundational career includes hands-on clinical and research experience as a Medical Laboratory Scientist for the Ministry of Public Health's HIV/AIDS Collaboration, as well as at prominent institutions like Bumrungrad International Hospital.

Dr. Suksaweang’s research portfolio is exceptionally diverse, bridging the gap between molecular biology, regional health, and diagnostic innovation. His past and present research encompasses liver morphogenesis, the health impacts of regional diets (such as Isan food and fermented fish), microbiocidal research, and bone cement development. Currently, he is spearheading forward-looking projects including the development of biosensors and diagnostic tests, as well as unique genomic and linguistic studies focusing on the Kui population.

With his robust clinical laboratory background, international academic pedigree, and leadership in translational medicine, Dr. Suksaweang brings a deeply analytical, health-focused, and innovative perspective to the judging panel.
WhatsApp Image 2026-02-07 at 10.20.19 AM (1)

Dr. Benjawan Dunkhunthod

Judge / Panelist: Dr. Benjawan Dunkhunthod
Lecturer, Faculty of Nursing and Allied Health Sciences, Phetchaburi Rajabhat University, Thailand

Dr. Benjawan Dunkhunthod is a highly accomplished scholar with profound expertise in biomedical sciences and pharmacology. She currently serves as a lecturer at Phetchaburi Rajabhat University in Thailand, where she bridges the gap between traditional medicine and modern scientific research.

Dr. Dunkhunthod graduated with First-Class Honors and was awarded the prestigious Gold Medal for being at the top of her class during her undergraduate studies at Suranaree University of Technology. She subsequently earned her Master's and Ph.D. in Biomedical Sciences from the same institution. During her doctoral studies, her exceptional academic performance earned her the highly esteemed Royal Golden Jubilee (RGJ) Ph.D. Scholarship.

Her research expertise spans cancer biology, the toxicology of naturally derived compounds, and clinical pharmacology. She is particularly focused on the biological and pharmacological activities of natural products, including their anti-cancer, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and cytoprotective effects. To date, she has published over 20 research articles in leading international scientific journals and has won multiple "Best Oral Presentation" awards at national conferences.

With her rigorous scientific training, outstanding academic achievements, and extensive experience in natural medicine research, Dr. Dunkhunthod brings profound analytical depth and an authoritative, forward-looking perspective to the judging panel.
Miss Irene Man

Miss Irene Man

Miss Irene Man | Founder, President & Education Director

Miss Irene Man is a distinguished educational leader and the Founder of Miss Man International Education. She currently serves as the Director and President of the ADEPT Olympiad, where she also acts as a principal judge. Expanding her impact on global education, she is the President of the Koala Excellence Olympiad (KEO) and holds directorships at both the Holistic Innovation Education Alliance (HIEA) and the International Centre of Assessments and Nurturing (ICAN). With over 20 years of dedicated experience in the education sector, Miss Man has a deep background in teaching Chinese to non-native speakers. Her strong academic foundation includes a Bachelor’s degree earned in Australia and a Master’s degree in Education from the University of Hong Kong. Beyond her leadership in academic competitions, Miss Man is a highly sought-after assessment and education consultant, expertly guiding students through overseas study preparations and international benchmarking. She possesses nearly a decade of specialized experience in educational assessment, having worked and consulted with globally recognized organizations such as UNSW Global, IDP IELTS, ICAS Assessments Australia, LanguageCert, and IDP Envoy to enhance and accurately measure the English proficiency of both students and teachers.
Assoc. Prof. Dr. Soodkhet Pojprapai

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Soodkhet Pojprapai

1. Current Key Positions
Associate Professor (2017–Present): School of Ceramic Engineering, Institute of Engineering, Suranaree University of Technology (SUT), Thailand. Head of Research Unit (2015–Present): Data Storage Science and Technology Research Unit at SUT. President (2018–Present): Suratec Co., Ltd.

2. Education
Ph.D. in Materials Science and Engineering (2009): University of New South Wales (UNSW), Australia (Awarded the Thai Government Scholarship). M.Eng. in Nuclear Technology (2002): Chulalongkorn University, Thailand. B.Eng. in Industrial Engineering (1997): Chulalongkorn University, Thailand.

3. Past Professional Experience
Assistant Professor (2012–2017): School of Ceramic Engineering, SUT, Thailand. Adjunct Lecturer (2010–2014): School of Material Science and Engineering, UNSW, Australia. Lecturer (2009–2012): School of Ceramic Engineering, SUT, Thailand. 4. Research Interests His research focuses heavily on advanced materials and sensor technologies, specifically: Characterization of mechanical and electrical properties of electroceramics. Characterization of piezoelectric, multiferroic, and ferromagnetic materials. Piezoelectric energy harvesting. Wearable sensor applications. 5. Teaching Experience He has taught a variety of core engineering and materials science courses, including: Advanced Electrical Engineering Materials / Electrical Engineering Materials Introduction to Ferroelectric Materials and Devices X-ray Diffraction Quality Control Engineering Economy Production Planning and Control
Dr. Benjamas Jiraattakit

Dr. Benjamas Jiraattakit

📄 Profile and Current Roles
Dr. Benjamas Jiraattakit is an academic personnel and expert who plays an important role in driving and promoting the potential of Thai youths in the fields of medical sciences and international academic competitions.

1. Current Roles
* Executive Committee of TIBMOC Competition: Holds the position of Executive Committee Member of the Thailand International Biology & Medical Olympiad Challenge (TIBMOC) project, which is a biology competency testing platform for the medical line of Thailand and stepping towards the international level.

* Academic Development Cooperation: Plays an important role in driving research and academic cooperation networks, together with the Next Generation Knowledge Center, in signing Memorandums of Understanding (MOU) for academic cooperation with leading educational institutions to create opportunities and develop student potential in the Youth Research Cooperation Project in Medical Sciences and Medical Technology.

🎓 Educational and Training Background From the basic information regarding consistent higher education curricula, the educational background of Dr. Benjamas can be organized according to the curriculum structure of Suranaree University of Technology (SUT) as follows: * Major Fields: Pre-clinic / Biomedical Sciences
* Educational Institution: Suranaree University of Technology
* Academic Connection: Curriculum structure and education at the graduate level (Master's - Doctorate) and curricula related to basic medical sciences (such as Pre-clinic, Biomedical Sciences, and Pharmacology), which are important foundations enabling application in managing curricula and international medical innovation camps, such as in the fields of Cell Biology, Molecular Cell Biology, and Medical Microbiology at present.

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