EnglishRecognized for Excellence in Sustainable Development and Public Health Research Demonstrating the Potential of the Next Generation of Global Researchers
The International Journal of Convergence Science for Youth (IJCSY) announced that two outstanding young researchers have been awarded the Grand Prize at international research events for their innovative studies in sustainable development and public health. Their achievements demonstrate how youth researchers can address complex global challenges through creative, interdisciplinary thinking while proposing practical and impactful solutions. The awards highlight the growing research excellence and international competitiveness of the next generation of global scholars.
Presenting a New Paradigm for Sustainable Development
Jayden Kim, a student at BC Collegiate Seoul, received the Grand Prize at the 2025 International Conference on Convergence Science for his research on sustainable development. His study examined the limitations of traditional aid-based development approaches and introduced the Circular Agency model, a new framework that promotes sustainable development by emphasizing human agency and community capacity building. Rather than focusing solely on economic assistance, the model integrates cultural contexts, human behavior, and community self-reliance to foster long-term social transformation. The research was highly commended for presenting an innovative and practical approach to achieving sustainable development.
Reflecting on his experience, Jayden said, “The greatest challenge was developing a model that was both academically rigorous and practically applicable. Through this research, I learned that solving global problems requires interdisciplinary thinking that brings together economics, psychology, culture, and human behavior.”He added, “In the future, I hope to contribute to meaningful social change through NGO activities. I also encourage students to pursue research topics that genuinely reflect their curiosity and passion.”
Photo 1. Jayden Kim (BC Collegiate Seoul), recipient of the Grand Prize at the 2025 International Conference on Convergence Science.
AI-Based Public Health Project Offers a Practical Solution
Bori Lee of Handong International School, together with teammate Sarang Lim, received the Grand Prize at the 2026 Global Project Proposal Competition for proposing the Livestock Health Check-up Program (LHCUP), an innovative initiative designed to combat antimicrobial resistance in the livestock industry. The LHCUP integrates regular veterinary health examinations with a digital antibiotic monitoring system to reduce antibiotic misuse on livestock farms. The proposal also includes long-term implementation strategies, such as support systems for farmers with limited digital literacy, AI-based monitoring technologies, and government reporting mechanisms. Judges praised the project for its strong feasibility, scientific foundation, and policy relevance.
Bori commented, “The greatest challenge was finding the right balance between innovation and practical implementation. Through close collaboration, extensive research, and continuous feedback, our team was able to develop a project that is both scientifically sound and practically applicable.”She continued, “This experience strengthened my belief that young people can make meaningful contributions to solving real-world problems. I hope to continue conducting research in biology that advances public health and environmental sustainability.”
Photo 2. Bori Lee, recipient of the Grand Prize at the 2026 Global Project Proposal Competition.
Demonstrating the Global Competitiveness of Young Researchers
An IJCSY representative noted that although the two award-winning projects focus on different fields sustainable development and public health—they share a common goal of applying scientific knowledge and interdisciplinary thinking to address real societal challenges.
“These achievements clearly demonstrate that young researchers possess the creativity, academic excellence, and global competitiveness needed to contribute meaningfully on the international stage,” the representative said. “IJCSY will continue expanding its international academic programs and research exchange opportunities to support young researchers who are committed to innovation, scholarly excellence, and social responsibility.”
IJCSY provides a global research platform that enables students worldwide to engage in addressing global challenges through science and interdisciplinary research. Through international conferences, global project competitions, and scholarly publication opportunities, the journal remains committed to nurturing the next generation of globally minded researchers and future scientific leaders.