In a remarkable showcase of talent and innovation, Armenian schoolchildren participated in a highly competitive “STEM Armenia | November 2024” national contest. The contest, which unfolded over two challenging rounds, saw the participation of 50 eager students from various regions of the country. The contest was generously sponsored by the company Termo-Ar.
The contest aimed to inspire and nurture young minds in the fields of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM). The first round, which featured three critical thinking tasks testing analytical and problem-solving skills, witnessed good performances from most participants.
Out of the initial cohort, ten students advanced to the second round. In this stage, the young scholars faced a unique challenge: crafting an engaging computer presentation on the 2024 Nobel Prize winners in physics, chemistry, medicine, or economics. This task not only tested their technological and research skills but also encouraged them to delve into contemporary scientific advancements and their implications.
The three students who created the most engaging presentations were chosen as the winners of the contest. These top performers impressed us with their understanding of the Nobel Prize’s significance and ability to convey complex ideas effectively through their presentations. By far the most popular topic, including the three winners, was the work of John Hopfield and Geoffrey Hinton on the development of artificial neural networks, for which they won the Nobel Prize in Physics.
The contest was a success, highlighting the importance of fostering a strong foundation in the STEM disciplines that are critical to meeting the challenges of tomorrow. STEM Armenia NGO and the contest sponsor are expressing their delight at the level of enthusiasm displayed by all participants. By encouraging the spirit of inquiry and intellectual curiosity, such contests play an instrumental role in shaping the scientific leaders of the future.