The 2024 China-Central Asia Teenager Maker Camp, hosted by Children and Youth Science Center of CAST and Xinjiang Association for Science and Technology, kicked off at Xinjiang Medical University on September 22, as an important part of the National Science Popularization Day in Xinjiang. About 200 teenagers and teachers from seven countries, including China, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Uzbekistan, Pakistan, and Azerbaijan, gathered in Urumqi to immerse themselves in the unique charm of Xinjiang through engaging hands-on activities, promoting technological and cultural exchanges.

The theme of this year's Maker Camp is "Dream of Future Science, Dedication to Better World." The week-long camp is divided into four chapters: Science & Technology, Culture, Ecology and Cooperation, featuring four scientific courses and 15 activities focused on technological and cultural exchanges.

During the event, participants will embark on a cultural journey at the Xinjiang Museum, explore Xinjiang's unique natural resources at the Xinjiang Natural Museum and experience the vibrant culture of Xinjiang at the Xinjiang International Grand Bazaar. They will also visit Turpan to explore the Karez Wells, one of China's three ancient engineering marvels, and learn about the use of science and technology in their construction.

Additionally, they will participate in scientific investigation activities at popular science bases, including the Turpan Eremophytes Botanical Garden of the Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS) and the Nanshan Base of the Xinjiang Astronomical Observatory, CAS. They will also explore the innovative spirit of enterprises such as Xinjiang Bayi Iron & Steel Co., Ltd., a subsidiary of China Baowu Steel Group. Moreover, activities showcasing intangible cultural heritage will offer participants an opportunity to appreciate the richness of traditional Chinese culture.

Nokhon Akhilmietova, a student from Uzbekistan, said, "Last year's experience was incredible, and this year we have come with more people to explore even more places. I'm particularly excited about the Nanshan Observatory and the Karez Wells in Turpan. I hope to learn more about technology, gain insights into traditional Chinese culture, and make new friends."

To foster deeper connections between students and teachers from the Xinjiang region and Central Asian countries, participants will visit Urumqi Bayi High School, where they will engage with local students in AI courses, space technology innovation classes, and other science classes.

"The Maker Camp not only allows us to showcase the technological innovations of Xinjiang's teenagers, but also enables us to gain insights into the customs and cultures of different countries, facilitating mutual learning and collective progress," said Yang Haozhe, a student at Urumqi Bayi High School.

Since its launch in 2017, the Maker Camp has successfully hosted eight editions, attracting over 40 million teenagers and science teachers from more than 50 countries, regions, and international organizations to pursue their scientific aspirations. In 2023, the camp was included in the practical cooperation project list for the Third Belt and Road Forum for International Cooperation, making it the only project specifically focused on teenagers.

"The China-Central Asia Teenager Maker Camp serves as a vital platform for teenagers from Central Asian countries to chase their scientific dreams," said Su Hong, director of the Xinjiang Youth Science and Technology Education and Popularization Center. "This platform promotes enhanced interaction and exchanges between Chinese teenagers and teachers and their counterparts from Central Asia. We look forward to co-developing and sharing science education outcomes with more Belt and Road countries in the future."