Launched in 2021 by UNITAR CIFAL Shanghai, “A Students Challenge for the Global Goals” is an international youth innovation journey inspired by the 17 United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Open to all K–12 students, the Challenge encourages young people to observe the world, care for people and the planet, and explore how innovation and technology can drive a more sustainable future.
Participation is free. Students are invited to investigate an SDG-related issue and design a creative, technology-based solution. Each project should present not only the idea itself but also the engineering design process behind it, helping students learn to think and act like real-world problem solvers.
Project Categories
PROTOTYPE
🟡 Age 7-12 🟢 Age13-18
- Submit working prototypes that prove feasibility and effectiveness of your creative design.
- Open to ages 7-12 and 13-18.
IDEA
🟡 Age 7-12
- Submit a creative solution, but no prototypes yet (due to time, resources, or implementation limits)
- Open only to 7-12 age group.
2026 Featured Theme
Every day, we consume resourcesand shape the future of our planet. According to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals Report 2025, global resource consumption continues to rise, while food waste, plastic pollution, and waste management remain major challenges to sustainable development. In response, this year’s Challenge focuses on SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production.
How can we reduce waste, useresources more responsibly, and harness science, engineering, and AI to create sustainable solutions? How can we inspire more people to make responsible choices? Students are invited to explore the theme of “Responsible Consumption & Production” with bold, creative ideas and turn real-world challenges into meaningful action.
Note: Each year’s theme is for inspiration only—projects on any of the UN Sustainable Development Goals are welcome.
What You Will Gain
Gain Global Exposure
Winning projects will be recommended for international showcases and exchanges, e.g. UNESCO CIPP, ICUN events, giving you the opportunities to present your ideas on a global stage.
Benefit from Expert Guidance
Receive detailed feedback and mentorship from a distinguished panel of judges, helping you strengthen your project with professional insights.
Develop 21st Century Competencies
Through hands-on design and problem-solving, you will enhance creativity, collaboration, and communication skills while deepening your understanding of the 17 UN SDGs.
Achieve United Nations Recognition
First, Second, and Third Prize winners will receive Official UN SDG Certificates issued by UNITAR CIFAL Shanghai. All finalists will receive Participation Certificates from the organizing committee.
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