UNESCO has officially opened applications for the Science Club Challenge 2026 – Asia-Pacific edition, a regional initiative aimed at strengthening school-based and youth-led science clubs across the region. Launched under the UNESCO Science Clubs Network, the programme focuses on promoting innovation, collaboration, and long-term sustainability in STEM education.
Unlike traditional scholarships, this initiative is designed as a competition-based recognition programme rather than a funding scheme for individual students. It highlights the role of science clubs in building strong, community-driven STEM ecosystems.
Program Type
The UNESCO Science Club Challenge 2026 is a:
- Regional STEM competition
- Capacity-building initiative
- Recognition-based programme (not a scholarship)
It does not provide tuition funding or stipends but offers awards and international recognition for impactful science club activities.
Eligible Participants
The challenge is open to:
- School-based science clubs
- Student-led science organizations
- Educators supporting STEM clubs
Applicants must be based in the Asia-Pacific region and actively involved in structured science or STEM-related club activities.
Focus Areas
Participating science clubs are expected to showcase activities in:
- Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM)
- Innovation and experimentation
- Environmental science and sustainability
- Robotics and digital learning
- Community-based science projects
- Youth-led scientific engagement initiatives
Program Benefits
Although the programme does not offer financial scholarships, participants can benefit from:
- Gold, Silver, and Bronze recognition awards
- International visibility through UNESCO networks
- Opportunities for global STEM collaboration
- Increased credibility for future academic or funding applications
- Recognition of club impact and innovation
- Strengthened institutional profile for schools and organizations
These benefits can help students and clubs build strong academic and professional profiles for future opportunities.
Eligibility Criteria
To participate in the UNESCO Science Club Challenge 2026, applicants must:
- Be part of a science club in the Asia-Pacific region
- Be affiliated with a school or educational institution
- Demonstrate active engagement in STEM-related activities
- Provide documented evidence of club initiatives and outcomes
- Submit a clear plan for future development and sustainability
Application Requirements
Applicants are generally required to submit:
- A detailed activity report of STEM initiatives
- Documentation of projects or experiments conducted
- Optional educational materials created by the club
- A roadmap outlining future goals and sustainability plans
Submissions are evaluated based on both past performance and future potential.
Selection Criteria
Applications are assessed using key criteria, including:
- Innovation in STEM activities
- Scientific value of projects
- Community and educational impact
- Inclusiveness and accessibility
- Sustainability of initiatives
- Collaboration and teamwork
Clubs that demonstrate measurable outcomes and long-term vision are more likely to succeed.
Application Process
Interested science clubs should follow these steps:
- Prepare Documentation
Collect reports, project evidence, and supporting materials showcasing STEM activities. - Develop a Sustainability Plan
Outline how the club will continue and expand its activities. - Submit Application
Apply through the official UNESCO Science Clubs Network platform or designated regional portal. - Evaluation Stage
Applications are reviewed based on impact, innovation, and sustainability. - Award Announcement
Selected clubs are awarded recognition at different levels.
Application Deadline
The last date to apply for the UNESCO Science Club Challenge 2026 – Asia-Pacific edition is 30 September 2026.
Official Call: https://www.unesco.org/en/articles/call-applications-science-club-challenge-2026-asia-pacific-edition
