From Research to Reflection: What IEF and SSYS Taught Us

Written by: Jiang Yuxuan (4i2) and Zhao Zilin Wesley (4i3)

Introduction 

In 2026, we were grateful for the opportunity to participate in two major platforms for scientific research and innovation: the International Elementz Fair (IEF) from 21-23 April, organised by Anderson Serangoon Junior College, where our project received a Gold award, and the 14th Congress Search for SEAMEO Young Scientists (SSYS) Congress in Penang from 9-12 February, organised by SEAMEO, where we were one of only two groups selected to represent Singapore.

Both experiences brought together students from different schools and countries to present their work, exchange ideas, and discuss real-world issues through science. SSYS, in particular, centred on the theme “GREENOVATE: Youth Turning Vision into Action for a Sustainable Future”, while also encouraging meaningful interaction among students from diverse backgrounds across Southeast Asia.

Main Experience 

Photos taken during the SSYS public fair. 

One of the most meaningful aspects of both IEF and SSYS was the opportunity to interact with students and researchers from different countries and disciplines. To us, these science fairs were not merely competitions, but platforms for scientific discourse and collaboration. At SSYS especially, we encountered a wide range of projects addressing issues such as sustainability, healthcare, engineering, and environmental protection.

One project that stood out to us explored the use of fallen Carabao mango leaves to produce carbon quantum dots, which could then be embedded into window panels to generate electricity from ultraviolet light. It was a compelling example of how research can be grounded in locally available resources. Listening to participants explain the motivations behind their work also helped us appreciate how research priorities differ according to local challenges and societal needs.

Photo taken shortly before final judging.

Photo taken during final judging.

Presenting our own project to judges, peers, and educators was another significant experience. We had to communicate complex scientific concepts clearly and concisely, while responding to questions that challenged us to justify our methodology more critically. These discussions pushed us to think more deeply about the rationale behind our research and strengthened our understanding of it. 

At IEF, receiving the Gold award was particularly memorable because it affirmed the effort, persistence, and refinement that went into our project. More importantly, it reminded us of the importance of resilience and iteration in scientific research. Many aspects of the project required repeated troubleshooting, methodological adjustments, and careful analysis before we achieved meaningful results. 

Reflection and Learning 

Through these experiences, we learned that research is not only about obtaining results, but also about communication, adaptability, and perspective. Presenting to an international audience taught us the importance of explaining scientific ideas in a clear, accessible, and logically structured manner. 

One challenge we faced was learning how to explain and defend the technical aspects of our work to people from different academic backgrounds. Initially, it was difficult to strike a balance between scientific detail and clarity. However, through repeated presentations and feedback, we became more aware of how to tailor our explanations to different audiences while maintaining scientific accuracy. We learned to avoid excessive scientific jargon and adapt our presentations to audiences of different ages, backgrounds, and, at SSYS, even languages.

At SSYS, for instance, our Thai roommates and we were fairly reserved around one another at first. Because of the initial language barrier, even discussing scientific research proved challenging. However, as we gradually learned how to communicate our ideas more simply and effectively, we were able to form meaningful connections rooted in a shared passion for science. Ultimately, we realised that research rests not only on discovery, but also on effective scientific communication.

These experiences also reinforced the importance of collaboration. Research became less about individual achievement and more about exchanging ideas, learning from others, and improving through constructive feedback. 

Conclusion 

Overall, participating in IEF and SSYS was an immensely meaningful experience. Beyond recognising our efforts in scientific research, these opportunities helped us grow as both researchers and communicators. They exposed us to diverse perspectives, strengthened our confidence in presenting scientific work, and deepened our understanding of research as a collaborative and evolving process.

We hope more students will remain open-minded and actively engage in scientific research. It is truly a rewarding and enriching journey.