The 18th International Science Youth Forum (ISYF) in Singapore (4th – 10th January 2026)

From 4th to 10th January 2026, we had the privilege of attending the 18th International Science Youth Forum (ISYF), hosted by Hwa Chong Institution in Singapore. Led by our teacher-in-charge, Miss WH Li, we immersed ourselves in a week of scientific discovery and cultural exchange under the inspiring theme, “Curiosity Unlocked: How Questions Drive Discovery in the Age of AI.”

Day 1 (5th January):

The forum commenced with vibrant team bonding among over 170 delegates from across the globe. We broke the ice through interactive games and a rich cultural exhibition, where we proudly presented Hong Kong’s dim sum, mahjong, and Cantopop. In return, we learned about Indonesia’s Balinese dance, the Estonian language, and Laotian kaipen. The afternoon was dedicated to the Singapore Discovery Trail, where we explored iconic sites like Fort Canning and Clarke Quay, culminating at the breathtaking Gardens by the Bay. This adventure was not just a tour but a series of collaborative challenges that deepened our appreciation for Singapore’s unique fusion of urban landscape and lush greenery.

Day 2 (6th January): 

We visited the National University of Singapore (NUS) for a captivating lecture by Professor Sow Chorng Haur, "Introduction to the Nanoworld." Through dynamic demonstrations, we explored the intriguing properties of matter at the nanoscale, learning about applications in cancer diagnostics—such as targeting tumour cells via their thiol tails—and the creation of stronger materials.

The learning continued at the Science Centre Singapore with a hands-on workshop on genetic diseases. We performed practical tests related to thalassemia, delving into the genetic theory behind this condition.

The day concluded with the first Science Quest, an exhilarating escape-room-style challenge that required us to solve complex puzzles spanning quantum physics, carbon chemistry, and biological deduction—a direct embodiment of the forum’s theme on the power of inquiry.

 

Day 3 (7th January): 

The day began with a profound Masterclass with Professor Roger Foo, a renowned cardiac geneticist and Vice Dean at NUS Medicine. He shared his pioneering work on the cardiac epigenome and heart failure mechanisms, while also providing insights into Singapore's healthcare system and current public health projects, such as the project RESET as part of its “Iceburg” project. 

Later, we experienced the mesmerizing intersection of art and technology at the ArtScience Museum’s TeamLab exhibition. The evening’s collaborative Science Quest tasked us with designing creative and informative scientific infographics with our international groupmates.

Day 4 (8th January):

We were honoured to attend a Masterclass with Nobel Laureate Sir Richard J. Roberts, who recounted his Nobel-winning discovery of split genes and mRNA splicing. His talk was a powerful testament to how fundamental curiosity and asking the right questions can lead to paradigm-shifting discoveries. 

The flagship event was the Keynote Lecture by Nobel Laureate Professor Brian Schmidt on the accelerating universe, an awe-inspiring journey through cosmology. This was followed by the Poster Exhibition, a grand showcase of student research. We engaged with an incredible array of 49 other projects, from AI-optimised F1 aerodynamics to novel water purification methods, witnessing the remarkable innovation of our global peers. The day of intellectual feast concluded with a festive dinner out at Orchard 313.

Day 5 (9th January):

The forum culminated in a heartfelt Closing Lunch and Farewell. Amidst reflections and performances, we said goodbye to the friends and facilitators who had made the week so memorable, promising to maintain the connections formed.

Reflections:

The true impact of ISYF 2026 was felt beyond lectures, in the shared experience of discovery. It reaffirmed that in an age of technology, authentic curiosity, critical dialogue, and human connection remain the core drivers of progress. We are deeply thankful to our teacher-in-charge, Miss WH Li, for her mentorship, care and support, and to the remarkable ISYF 2026 Organising Committee for their hospitality and for creating this unparalleled platform. We returned home not only with enhanced scientific knowledge, but with something far more profound: a deeper motivation to pursue scientific inquiry, a broader perspective on our role as young scientists, a global network of friends, and a fortified belief in our own potential. This transformative experience has reshaped us into more confident, connected, and curious individuals, equipping us to engage with the scientific challenges of our time with both passion and a sense of global responsibility.