China’s Belt and Road Initiative – is an ambitious program to build a Silk Road Economic Belt and a 21st Century Maritime Silk Road in cooperation with participating countries – this vision was unveiled by Chinese President Xi Jinping. This requires a robust commitment to support science, technology and engineering, including the capacity building and human resource development especially for the youth that is our future.
To augment this initiative, China Association for Science and Technology (CAST) and Ministry of Science and Technology of China in collaboration with ECO Science Foundation other leading international organization launched the Belt and Road Teenager Science Summer Camp and Belt and Road Teenager Maker Camp & Teacher Workshop in 2017. These mega events aim to strengthen cross-cultural exchange, promote international understanding and inspire innovation in young generation.
In response to this, the ECOSF signed MoU with Children and Youth Science Centre (CYSC) of China Association for Science & Technology (CAST) in December 2017. Under the MoU, the ECOSF has been designated as a Coordinating Center for promotion of STI and Science Education under BRI in the ECO Member States. Under the BRISTEC, ECOSF is collaborating with China Association for Science and Technology (CAST) to coordinate and invite teams comprising students and teachers from the ECO Member Countries to participate in the Belt and Road events.
ECOSF is bringing its Member States on board under the BRISTEC initiative and helping them to benefit from the expertise and capacity of Chinese Science, Technology and Innovation (STI) institutions especially for its youth with a vision to boost infrastructure and industrial development in the region.
The camps give students the opportunity to cooperate with the best of their age at international level, to share ideas and study cutting-edge knowledge in science labs of top schools in China through hands-on experience and teamwork under guidance of experienced teachers. Science education forum and teacher workshop are held for teachers to share educational practice of different countries and learn skills of stem education.
Belt and Road Teenager Science Camps also include diversified cultural and scientific programs including Chinese cultural experience and various visits. Belt and Road Teenager Science Camps have built sound connections and collaborations with associated organizations in the field of science education among Asia, Europe, Africa and Oceania.