Uniting Global Youth to Shape the Future: World Association of Young Scientists Officially Established

On November 17, Against the backdrop of accelerating globalization and increasingly close international scientific and technological cooperation, the World Association of Young Scientists(WAYS) was officially inaugurated during the Plenary Session of the World Young Scientist Summit(WYSS).WAYS was spearheaded by the China Association for Science and Technology (CAST), and jointly launched by the CAST Center for Professional Training and Services, the Wenzhou Growth Foundation for World Young Scientists, the Venture Cup Denmark,and the Young Earth Scientists Network.

Recently, at the First General Assembly of the WAYS, Chaoyang Lu was elected as Chairperson. Chunbo Gao, Shulei Chou, Morten Ugelvig Andersen, and Meng Wang were elected as Vice- Chairpersons, with Chunbo Gao additionally serving as Secretary-General.

Convergence and Innovation: Building A New Platform for International Collaboration

As an international, academic, and non-profit social organization, the establishment of the WAYS represents the birth of a new network for scientific collaboration. Focused on uniting the collective strength of young scientists worldwide, WAYS is guided by the core principle of “science and technology for good.” It is committed to providing innovative support for the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and actively promoting the building of a community with a shared future for humanity. Through cross-disciplinary and cross-regional collaboration, WAYS fosters knowledge exchange and cultural understanding among young scientists, explores the potential applications of science in addressing global issues, and amplifies the voice of youth, contributing their wisdom in driving sustainable development through scientific and technological innovation.

Chunbo Gao emphasized that WAYS will build a diverse research community that brings together young scientists from different countries and backgrounds, thereby fostering innovative thinking to address global challenges. At the same time, it will actively promote the sharing of research resources, knowledge, and technology, enabling young scientists from various nations to collaborate more easily. The presence of WAYS will not only contribute to tackling major global issues but also nurture a new generation of internationally-minded research leaders, making significant contributions to global scientific and technological progress.

Collaboration and Interdisciplinarity: Connecting Young Scientists Worldwide

WAYS operates through several key initiatives: actively engaging with the WYSS to foster collaboration and communication among young scientists from various countries, while building a global platform for exchange and cooperation; supporting young scientists in achieving breakthroughs to promote sustainable development through technological innovations; advancing sustainable development by initiating activities focused on science communication and public engagement; and launching collaborative efforts with relevant scientific and technological organizations. By attracting and inspiring young scientists from around the globe, WAYS enhances cross-cultural communication and encourages the active and meaningful participation of young scientists in global science and technology governance.

Chaoyang Lu stated that the establishment of WAYS is an effective means of uniting young scientific talents. Building on the foundation of WYSS, WAYS can attract more high-level talent, gather the collective wisdom of young scientists, and contribute to scientific and technological innovation that advances sustainable development. At the same time, it represents a pragmatic effort to consolidate a shared commitment to “Technology for Good.” Responding to the aspirations of young scientists, the establishment of WAYS will help unite a cohort of young scientific leaders who are friendly toward China, harness the innovative energy of youth, and provide youth-driven solutions to enhance human well-being.

Uniting and Empowering: The Successful Inauguration of WAYS

At the Founding Ceremony of the WAYS, a promotional video was played, introducing its historical background, mission, nature, and vision. Representatives from 32 organizations, including the Nordic Zhigong Association, the ASEAN Young Scientists Network, and International Association of Advanced Materials, took the stage to “empower” the establishment of WAYS,seven prominent representatives took the stage to illuminate the launch device, symbolizing the official establishment of the WAYS. These representatives included Jinzhan Wang, Member of the Party Leadership Group and Secretary of the Secretariat of the China Association for Science and Technology (CAST); Zhenfeng Zhang, Deputy Governor of Zhejiang Province and Secretary of the Wenzhou Municipal Party Committee; Jianmin Si, Vice-Chairperson of the Standing Committee of the 13th Zhejiang Provincial People’s Congress and President of the Zhejiang Association for Science and Technology; Ashutosh Tiwari, Secretry-General of International Association of Advanced Materials; Gabriela Ivan, Communications Officer, Partnershipsand Membership Development of the International Science Council; Chaoyang Lu, Executive Dean of USTC Shanghai Institute for Advanced Studies and Chairperson of WAYS; and Morten Ugelvig Andersen, CEO of Venture Cup Denmark.

It is reported that the CAST Center for Professional Training and Services, the Wenzhou Municipal Peoples Government, the Zhejiang Association for Science and Technology, and the WAYS have recently signed a joint agreement to collaboratively support the development and growth of WAYS