“Inspiring Future Possibilities: A Conversation with The Shaw Laureates”, presented by The Shaw Prize Foundation and The Hong Kong Science Museum, and organised by The South China Morning Post, is a moderated conversation between Shaw Laureates – each has made groundbreaking contributions to such fields as Astronomy, Life Science and Medicine, and Mathematical Sciences, and local high school students.

This student engagement programme is an extraordinary opportunity for young science enthusiasts to immerse themselves in scientific exploration and interact with world-class scientists in three different fields.

The laureates will include:

Shrinivas R Kulkarni
Shaw Laureate in Astronomy 2024

Swee Lay Thein
Shaw Laureate in Life Science and Medicine 2024

Stuart Orkin
Shaw Laureate in Life Science and Medicine 2024

Peter Sarnak
Shaw Laureate in Mathematical Sciences 2024

Scott D Emr
Shaw Laureate in Life Science and Medicine 2021

An exclusive conversation featuring these scientific visionaries and young minds promises to ignite curiosity, inspire excellence, and foster meaningful connections.

Application Process
Senior form students (F.4 – F.6) are tasked with submitting a 100-250-word piece that reflects their passion for scientific research in one of the following fields: Astronomy, Life Science and Medicine, or Mathematical Sciences. The shortlisted pieces are expected to convey the applicants’ enthusiasm and articulate how in-person engagement with the laureates can fuel their pursuit of excellence.

Shortlisting
A maximum of 45 students will be shortlisted by the SCMP editorial team. Their selection criteria go beyond excellent writing skills; they seek those who possess an unwavering passion and the potential to make a positive impact. These students are the torchbearers of scientific curiosity, ready to learn from the best.

Getting Ready
On November 9, 2024, shortlisted students will attend an online pre-event briefing. It’s an SCMP-curated complimentary English journalistic writing workshop, tailored specifically for this occasion, focusing on interview techniques and storytelling skills. Armed with newfound knowledge, students will be well-prepared to engage with the laureates and maximise the benefits from the upcoming event.

The Big Day
November 14, 2024 is the day of inspiration. The shortlisted students will immerse themselves in the world of the Shaw Prize at the group discussion to be held in the morning. Divided into three groups based on their interests, the students will interact with the laureates, ask probing questions, and engage in a discussion. They will learn from real-world experiences, and connect with mentors who have shaped the scientific landscape.

The shortlisted students will also be invited to the ‘Roundtable with Shaw Laureates’ event which will take place in the afternoon, where the laureates will further share their thoughts and experiences in a roundtable setting on the theme of “Future in Science: Impacts and Breakthroughs”. Seats are subject to availability.

Reflections
The programme also offers the students the chance to further deepen what they’ve learned by reflecting on their encounter with the laureates. They’ll pen a 250-word post-event reflection, capturing their insights, emotions, and newfound perspectives. The students will illustrate their reflections with photos taken during the event. And the best part? The top three articles will be published in the Young Post, inspiring others and immortalising this transformative experience.

Key dates at a glance

Registration
Please register by filling up the google form below:
https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfqvp93aLKrdZ5hjuSunEgww7y3pAcrVW7f5suByP_KvJtc7Q/viewform