In 2024, UNESCO awarded several innovative projects developed by young students from around the world as part of the “UNESCO Future Designer International Innovation Design Awards (IIDA)”. The award aims to recognise the imagination and creativity of new generations, encouraging them to reflect on major global challenges and, above all, to propose concrete solutions to current problems, inspired by the principles of sustainable development.

This year’s winners came from various countries, including China, Pakistan, Ukraine, Turkey, Hungary, Brazil, India, the Philippines and Egypt. Their projects addressed critical issues such as the climate crisis, biodiversity loss, social inequality and access to education, through original approaches combining science, art and technology. The proposals were selected by a panel of nine experts based on their potential impact, their level of innovation, and their alignment with the core values promoted by UNESCO. Among the winning projects were: “Get in Touch”, “3D-Printed Reef Tiles”, and “EcoWeave Ball”.

The project “Get in Touch”, developed in the United Arab Emirates, proposes an AI-based application that facilitates communication between doctors and patients by translating medical content into multiple languages and visual formats, intending to ensure universal access to healthcare. From China, with contributions from the University of Hong Kong and the start-up Archireef Ltd, came “3D-Printed Reef Tiles”, which uses eco-friendly 3D-printed tiles to support coral reef regeneration and protect marine ecosystems. Lastly, the project “EcoWeave Ball”, designed by students from the Beijing Institute of Technology, gives new life to used tyres by transforming them into educational kits for making footballs. This offers children in Africa a hands-on and creative learning experience while also reducing environmental waste.

The competition was first launched in September 2022 as part of the “UNESCO – UNITRAIN Youth Competence Development Project” and is open to undergraduate and postgraduate students worldwide. Participants are invited to submit various types of work that express their vision of a fairer, more just and sustainable future.

In a time marked by profound environmental and social transformations, thea award highlights the vital role of young people in shaping new imaginaries and driving change. Supporting youth creativity means investing in a more inclusive and resilient collective future.

For further information, please visit: https://unesdoc.unesco.org/ark:/48223/pf0000393304.