The 1st International Advanced
Multidisciplinary STEM Youth Innovation Contest 2026
(IAMSTEM YIC 2026)
Theme: Empowering Young Minds, Shaping Sustainable Future Industries with AI & STEM
Date: 29–31 October 2026
Venue: Khon Kaen Hotel, Khon Kaen, Thailand
About the Contest
The Association of ASEAN Research Network on STEM Education (ARN-STEM) cordially invites high school innovators to showcase their intellectual capabilities and creative talents at the 1st IAMSTEM Youth Innovation Contest 2026.
In collaboration with Khon Kaen University (Thailand), Mindanao State University – Iligan Institute of Technology (Philippines), State University of Malang (Indonesia), The University of Malaya (Malaysia). Thai Nguyen University of Education (Vietnam), Souphanouvong University (Lao PDR) and the National Science Museum Thailand (NSM), this prestigious competition aims to empower the next generation of problem solvers. We are seeking groundbreaking projects that seamlessly integrate Artificial Intelligence (AI) and STEM/STEAM principles to address real-world challenges, driving future sustainable growth across key global industries.
Sub-Themes & Target Industries
Applicants must align their innovative projects with 1 of the 14 targeted industries, categorized into 4 core technological clusters:
- Digital Transformation & Smart Automation
Focusing on the “intelligence” and “tools” powering Industry 4.0 through advanced software, AI, and modern machinery.
- Intelligent Electronics: AI-driven smart devices and edge-computing applications.
- Industrial Robotics: Autonomous systems and manufacturing efficiency innovations.
- Digital Industry: Software solutions, cybersecurity, and data science applications.
- Strategic Mobility & Logistic Systems
Focusing on the movement of people and goods, infrastructure protection, and strategic national systems.
- Future Mobility: Next-generation transportation technologies and Electric Vehicles (EV).
- Aviation & Logistics: Smart supply chains, commercial aviation solutions, and drone technology.
- National Defense: Strategic safety technologies and modern defense systems.
- Bio-Economy & Sustainable Resources
Focusing on eco-friendly production, biotechnology, and balancing the food-energy-environment ecosystem.
- Advanced Agriculture & Biotech: Precision smart farming and genetic innovations.
- Food for the Future: Alternative proteins, novel foods, and sustainable nutrition.
- Bio-based Energy & Chemicals: Clean biofuels, renewable energy, and bio-materials.
- Circular Economy: Waste-to-value solutions and sustainable resource loops (e.g., upcycled textiles).
- Health, Wellness & Lifestyle Innovation
Focusing on human-centric technologies designed to elevate quality of life, health, self-care, and modern lifestyles.
- Medical & Wellness Tourism: Healthcare tech targeting high-value wellness sectors.
- Medical Hub: Integrated medical systems, diagnostic devices, and healthcare equipment.
- Cosmeceutical Innovation: AI-powered dermatological analysis and bioactive formulation.
- Smart & Sustainable Fashion: Wearable IoT technology, AI-assisted textile design, and high-performance functional fabrics.
Shape the Future Today!
Are you ready to transform your ideas into world-changing solutions? Join us at IAMSTEM YIC 2026 in Khon Kaen, Thailand, and lead the way toward a smarter, more sustainable world.
Eligibility & Entry Requirements
- Target Audience: High school students (Ages 13–18).
- Team Structure: Teams of 3 to 5 students, accompanied by at least 1 advisor/teacher.