By Aisha Tarim
Students aged 16鈥18 are invited to submit a 1000-3000 word essay on a topic of their choice within one of the three main categories: Energy & Innovation, Medicine & Psychology or Chemistry & Biological Sciences. The competition presents an independent challenge for students, offering them a platform to sharpen their research and writing skills while building better critical thinking and communication, which prove to be essential for future studies and careers. Besides promoting and developing research, analysis, and communication skills within the participants, the solo digital competition offers them a unique chance to interview and engage directly with industry professionals, gaining valuable first-hand insight into their chosen field. The project, held in partnership with CNOOC International, Serica Energy, SSE Renewables and Thistle Wind Partnership, will officially commence on the 16th of June with the deadline for submissions 29th of August. TechFest is a charity that embraces challenges, delivering STEM-based initiatives created in partnership with industry and education to shape the future workforce. Wendy Findlay, National Programme Manager at TechFest, said: 鈥淭he STEM NEXT competition isn鈥檛 just about essays, it鈥檚 about unlocking the potential of young people who are genuinely excited about STEM but often unsure of where to start. 鈥淎s someone involved in this project, I鈥檝e seen firsthand how powerful it is for students to have a role model. Someone they can talk to directly, learn from, and show them that a career in STEM is within reach. It鈥檚 an incredibly rewarding experience, to watch a young child鈥檚 confidence grow and know you played a part.鈥 Mike Seaton, Project Director, Coire Glas at SSE Renewables said: 鈥淪TEM NEXT is helping develop the skilled talent we鈥檒l need to tackle real-world challenges. That鈥檚 why we believe it鈥檚 vital to engage young minds early, encouraging them to think creatively and practically about the future, especially as we work towards a more sustainable, renewable energy landscape.鈥 Victoria Allan, Mechanical Engineer at CNOOC International, said: 鈥淲e鈥檙e eager to hear bold, practical ideas from young minds who will shape the future. We can鈥檛 wait to see the innovative solutions this year鈥檚 participants bring to the table.鈥 Elise Murray, Environmental and Compliance Advisor at Serica Energy, said: 鈥淚nnovative ideas and fresh perspectives have never been more crucial for our industry. STEM NEXT empowers young people to question the norm and create solutions that will propel the sector ahead, all while inspiring the future leaders of STEM.鈥 Kirsty MacAulay, Communications Manager at Thistle Wind Partners, said: 鈥淎s a Scottish based developer, we鈥檙e thrilled about the opportunity to hear inspiring ideas from Scotland鈥檚 youth. Scotland has a proud tradition of innovation and leadership in shaping the future, and we’re eager to see how the next generation continues this legacy鈥 Young people competing in the STEM Next competition are eligible for CREST Awards and it also provides an opportunity for students to add additional achievements to their UCAS application. Moreover, the 1st place winners in each category will be awarded with 拢200 of Amazon vouchers, 2nd place winners in each category will be awarded with 拢100 of Amazon vouchers, and 3rd place winners in each category will be awarded with 拢50 of Amazon vouchers. Students and volunteers who would like to participate must register their interest via the website by the 4th of July 2025: https://techfest.org.uk/education/ages-over-11/stem-next-essay.