Working closely together, Hwa Chong Insti-tution (HCI) and the Institute of Advanced Studies (IAS), Nanyang Technological University, successfully organized the 6th International Science Youth Forum @ Singapore, ISYF, in January this year. With the generous sponsorship and support from the Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR) and Ministry of Education (MOE), the Forum saw more than 120 student and educator participants from 19 countries and 32 top science schools participat-ing in the Forum.

The Forum aimed to create a high-profile platform for outstanding Science students and educators from around the world to network with their counterparts and build capacities. Young talented science students built firm friendships as they interacted and participated in activities designed to promote mutual cooperation, understanding and appreciation of diverse cultures.

To inspire students, the Nobel Laureates and other eminent scientists shared their passion in their scientific work and life experiences. This created greater awareness amongst the youth about the importance of having broad-based knowledge, diverse interest, deep passion and tenacity in their pursuit of scientific excellence, especially in research. Participants had opportunities to discuss their research work with fellow students from different countries and took part in hands-on activities at HCI's Science Research Centre.

At the 6th ISYF, a record number of nine Nobel Laureates and two Fields Medal winners participated in the Master Classes and Nobel Dialogues. The distinguished speakers included Professor Aaron Ciechanover, Sir Anthony Leggett, Professor Kurt Wuthrich, Professor Stephen Smale, Professor Ada Yonath, to name a few.

Local eminent scientists were also invited to speak with participants in the Forum. Professor Li Haizhou spoke about "Improving the Quality of Life" based on his human language technology research at the Institute for Infocomm Research, A*STAR, whilst Associate Professor Lisa Ng discussed her life as a scientist and her research work to combat infectious diseases in the Singapore Immunology Network, A*STAR.

The five-day residential camp provided participants with many engaging and interesting activities. The theme of the Forum in 2014 was "Science for Humanity in the 21st century". Based on the main theme, participants explored the journeys of discovery of many of the Nobel Laureates and Field Medalists. They debated on the conflicts and controversies faced in the 21st century, discussed ideas about how science can be of service to humanity and took inspiration from the distinguished speakers in the pursuit of their passion in science.

Some highlights of the Forum included learning from the experts during Master Classes. Nobel Laureates and Fields medalists shared their scientific research work and answered the many questions that students and educators had posed during the 3-hour session.

The participants visited the Schools of Biological Sciences, Physical and Mathematical Sciences and College of Engineering at the Nanyang Technological University for engaging and innovative hands-on activities.

Another highlight of the Forum was the highly engaging panel discussion with the Nobel Laureates and eminent scientists hosted at the Nanyang Technological University. The session was moderated by Professor Bertil Andersson, President of NTU.

The Forum was not all work and no play. There were many moments of fun and laughter and sharing of cultures and traditions. The friendship forged in the short but intensive five days of activities, will no doubt be treasured and remembered fondly by all the participants.

At the end of the Forum, it was a bittersweet farewell for all. One participant aptly described the sentiment felt by all: "It is Surely an experience You'll never Forget!" ISYF!