Imagine the moment when young minds, brimming with questions, meet the very scientists who turned curiosity into lifelong exploration. For students passionate about science, these encounters aren’t just inspiring, they’re transformative. Hearing a Shaw Laureate explain how galaxies are mapped, equations unravelled, or microbes decoded turns distant dreams into tangible possibilities.

Far beyond textbooks and labs, these face-to-face exchanges reveal science as a living pursuit—a dialogue, a direction, and for many, a destiny.

That’s the heart of the Shaw Prize’s mission: to ignite imagination and cultivate the next generation of scientific leaders. Hong Kong students are invited to experience this vision firsthand at “Innovating for Tomorrow: A Conversation with The Shaw Laureates 2025.” Shortlisted participants will engage directly with world-renowned scientists in a rare, intimate setting.

Presented by the Shaw Prize Foundation and organised by SCMP Learn, this event features a moderated conversation between the 2025 Shaw Laureates and selected secondary school students—an unforgettable exchange of ideas, inspiration, and ambition.

The laureates will include:

John Richard Bond
Shaw Laureate in Astronomy 2025

George Efstathiou
Shaw Laureate in Astronomy 2025

Wolfgang Baumeister
Shaw Laureate in Life Science and Medicine 2025

Kenji Fukaya
Shaw Laureate in Mathematical Sciences 2025

Application
The journey begins with a challenge: a 100–250-word essay in which students express their passion for scientific research. Applicants are encouraged to showcase their curiosity and articulate a vision for how engaging with Shaw Laureates can fuel their pursuit of excellence. Whether it’s unraveling cosmic mysteries, solving advanced mathematical problems, or decoding life’s complexities, this essay is their opportunity to make a compelling case.

Shortlisting
The SCMP editorial team will review submissions and select up to 60 students who embody the spirit of discovery. They’re looking for individuals with passion and promise – students ready to carry the torch of scientific curiosity and become the innovators of tomorrow.

Pre-event Briefing
On October 18, 2025, shortlisted students will attend an online pre-event briefing: a tailor-made English journalistic writing workshop hosted by SCMP. This dynamic session will equip students with interview techniques and storytelling skills, preparing them to engage meaningfully with the laureates.

The Day of Inspiration
October 23, 2025 marks the main event. Shortlisted students will enter the world of the Shaw Prize for an immersive group discussion. Divided into three groups –Astronomy, Life Science and Medicine, and Mathematical Sciences– they will engage in conversations with the Shaw Laureates. These discussions will be followed by a moderated sharing session led by the SCMP Young Post editorial team, revealing the human stories behind the groundbreaking science.

Capturing the Moment: Reflections
To cement the experience, each student will write a 250-word post-event reflection, blending insights, emotions, and photos from the day. This is their opportunity to process the profound impact of meeting scientific visionaries and inspire others with their story. The top three reflections will be published in Young Post, sparking curiosity in readers around the globe.

Key dates at a glance

Registration
“Innovating for Tomorrow: A Conversation with The Shaw Laureates 2025” promises to be a launchpad for future scientific leaders. Don’t miss your chance – apply now and let your journey to excellence begin.

Please register by filling up the google form below: http://bit.ly/3HLMHCf