Launched in 2021 by UNITAR CIFAL Shanghai, “A Students Challenge for the Global Goals” is an international youth innovation journey inspired by the 17 United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Open to all K–12 students, the Challenge encourages young people to observe the world, care for people and the planet, and explore how innovation and technology can drive a more sustainable future.
Participation is free. Students are invited to investigate an SDG-related issue and design a creative, technology-based solution. Each project should present not only the idea itself but also the engineering design process behind it, helping students learn to think and act like real-world problem solvers.
Project Categories
PROTOTYPE
🟡 Age 7-12 🟢 Age13-18
- Submit working prototypes that prove feasibility and effectiveness of your creative design.
- Open to ages 7-12 and 13-18.
IDEA
🟡 Age 7-12
- Submit a creative solution, but no prototypes yet (due to time, resources, or implementation limits)
- Open only to 7-12 age group.
2025 Featured Theme: Water Resources
In 2025, the United Nations declared the year International Year of Glaciers' Preservation. The UN warns that glacier melt could affect the food & water supply of 2 billion people globally. In response, this year’s Challenge focuses on SDG 6: Clean Water and Sanitation.
How can we use water wisely, protect it better, and harness technology for sustainable solutions? How can we inspire more people to care about water’s future? Students are invited to tackle the theme of “Water Resources” with bold, creative ideas.
Note: Each year’s theme is for inspiration only—projects on any of the UN Sustainable Development Goals are welcome.
What You Will Gain
Gain Global Exposure
Your project could be recommended for international showcases and exchanges, giving you the opportunity to present your ideas on a global stage.
Benefit from Expert Guidance
You will receive detailed feedback and mentorship from a distinguished panel of judges, helping you strengthen your project with professional insights.
Develop Essential Competencies
Through hands-on design and problem-solving, you will enhance creativity, collaboration, and communication skills while deepening your understanding of the 17 UN SDGs.
Achieve United Nations Recognition
Winners may receive official UN SDG certificates, visit UN institutions, and obtain recommendation letters from UNITAR CIFAL officials—credentials that highlight your achievements for future academic opportunities.
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