‘Transcending Ideas’ Global Essay Competition, conducted by the Cambridge Centre for the Integration of Science, Technology, and Culture from the University of Cambridge, welcomes students at or below Grade 12 across the world to demonstrate and develop innovative thinking.

Two of our students, Anson Tam and Victoria Chong from Form 6 Science, participated in this global essay competition. Under the guidance of Mr. Kevin Cheong, their essays were judged by professors from the University of Cambridge in relevant subjects and entered the final round. They were invited to an online conference to deliver the final presentations to the judges for evaluation. They achieved outstanding results among 260 participants around the world.

We are delighted to announce that Anson Tam won the First Prize award with her essay The effects of climate change on the civil aviation industry in the subject of Engineering and Sustainability, and Victoria Chong won the First Prize award with her piece Is Artificial Intelligence a threat to human kinds? in the subject of Computer Science.

They would like to take this opportunity to share their insights into this competition.

Anson Tam: My genuine interest in climate change was what drove me to participate in the essay competition. Given this opportunity, I was able to gain a deeper insight into how susceptible the civil aviation industry, one of the most vital transportation sectors, may have the effects of this global issue, which has fuelled my curiosity to explore sustainable solutions to alleviate the problem. However, since I had no prior experience writing research essays and little knowledge about the industry, it was not easy to accomplish this task. Fortunately, with perseverance and guidance, I was able to conquer my fears. Lastly, I would like to express my gratitude to Mr Kevin, my beloved school, and CCISTC for this wonderful experience.

Victoria Chong: This summer, I had the opportunity to compete in the ‘Transcending Ideas Global Essay Competition’, in which I composed a 2000-word research essay on Artificial Intelligence. It was a lot of work, considering I had no prior expertise in the computer science field. I spent around two months analyzing countless academic essays and writing my own. It still feels surreal that I was able to get into the finals, where I virtually met one of the professors teaching at the University of Cambridge. I presented my essay, and we each shared some of our perspectives on the future of AI. I am privileged that my hard work was acknowledged and appreciated. During the past couple of months, I have discovered my passion for AI, and I intend to further my education in this sector. I am here to encourage all Rosians to stretch yourselves and take on bigger challenges because you will learn much more than you anticipated.

Congratulations to Anson and Victoria!