History
Extraordinary ideas
Each round of the competition inspires impressive project ideas. Forward-looking solutions and fresh perspectives come and have always come not only from the winners but from all participants. Examples include a process for extracting low-impact phosphate fertilizer from urine and a bio-degradable fiber-reinforced material made of stinging nettles. Other projects studied the potential for double-layer capacitors as an alternative for mobile energy supplies and an early-warning system to protect against sudden infant death syndrome. Each year, this diversity and interdisciplinary approach to complex topics impresses the jury and all those involved in the competition.
Assessing six years of student competitions
In the last six years of the competition, some 2,600 students have taken on socially relevant challenges and used math, science, and technology to develop practical solutions.The topics of focus ranged from urbanization, climate change, water, energy efficiency, conservation of resources, and the environment.
One objective in the choice of topics is to generate interest in the pursuit of university studies in math and science. The Siemens Stiftung is committed to offering students the opportunity to develop their talent through higher education.Thorough analysis of their research by the jurors is intended to strengthen them in their commitment and give them the self-confidence to continue their work. Another core objective of the competition is to establish a long-term network for the participants. The alumni program provides an active forum for past participants. Since 2010, the Siemens Stiftung has organized an annual alumni camp to which former participants are invited.
The student competition in math, science, and technology has been held since 2007. In 2009, the Siemens Stiftung took over the competition from Siemens AG.
Information on successful projects from past years can be found in the left-hand column.
