Kiattipoom Rodpun
Department of Chemistry, Mahidol Wittayanusorn School, Thailand
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Mahidol Wittayanusorn School had the honor of welcoming principals, teachers, and students from 43 schools from 18 countries worldwide to participate in the 20th International Students Science Fair 2025 (ISSF 2025), marking its milestone anniversary.
The Legacy of the International Students Science Fair (ISSF)
The ISSF was first held in 2005 at Mahidol Wittayanusorn School, Thailand, as a platform for high school students worldwide to present their scientific research projects and exchange knowledge in science, technology, and culture. The inaugural ISSF was a great success, leading to its continued organization over the years by prestigious science schools worldwide.
ISSF Host Schools
- 1st ISSF (2005): Mahidol Wittayanusorn School, Thailand
- 2nd ISSF (2006): Korea Science Academy, South Korea
- 3rd ISSF (2007): City Montessori School, India
- 4th ISSF (2008): Ritsumeikan Senior High School, Japan
- 5th ISSF (2009): National Junior College, Singapore
- 6th ISSF (2010): Australian Science and Mathematics School, Australia
- 7th ISSF (2011): Mahidol Wittayanusorn School, Thailand
- 8th ISSF (2012): Fort Richmond Collegiate, Canada
- 9th ISSF (2013): Camborne Science & International Academy, United Kingdom
- 10th ISSF (2014): Moscow Chemical Lyceum, Russia
- 11th ISSF (2015): John Monash Science School, Australia
- 12th ISSF (2016): NUS High School of Mathematics and Science, Singapore
- 13th ISSF (2017): Korea Science Academy, South Korea
- 14th ISSF (2018): Illinois Mathematics and Science Academy, USA
- 15th ISSF (2019): National Junior College, Singapore
- 16th ISSF (2020): Kamnoetvidya Science Academy, Thailand
- 17th ISSF (2021): The High School Affiliated with Beihang University, China
- 18th ISSF (2022): Lewiston-Porter High School, USA
- 19th ISSF (2023): Queensland Academy for Science, Mathematics, and Technology, Australia
- 20th ISSF (2025): Mahidol Wittayanusorn School, Thailand
Hosting ISSF 2025, the 20th edition of the event, is a prestigious honor for Mahidol Wittayanusorn School, reflecting the recognition and trust it has earned from the International Science Schools Network (ISSN), a global network of leading science schools.
ISSF 2025 Theme and Highlights
ISSF 2025 was designed to integrate knowledge across science, technology, and humanities under the theme:
“The 20th Chapter: Exploring a Visionary Future in Sustainability, Humanity, and Technology”
This theme emphasizes the commitment to building a sustainable future through the integration of science and technology for the benefit of humanity.
Key activities of ISSF 2025 included:
Opening Ceremony at Prince Mahidol Hall
The opening ceremony was a momentous occasion graced by Her Royal Highness Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn, who presided over the event. During the ceremony, the prestigious “ISSN Principal Lifetime Award” was presented to two distinguished individuals for their contributions to the ISSN network and global STEM education:
- Dr. Thongchai Chewprecha – Former Principal of Mahidol Wittayanusorn School
- Assoc. Prof. Hiroshi Tanaka – Former Principal of Ritsumeikan Junior and Senior High School
Keynote Lectures by Renowned Scientists
- “The Future Society Engendered by Lithium-Ion Battery” By Professor Akira Yoshino, Nobel Laureate in Chemistry (2019)
- “JUNO Neutrino Experiment” By Professor Wang Yifang, Director of the Institute of High Energy Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences
Student Research Projects: Oral and Poster Presentations
Students from around the world showcased their research projects through oral and poster presentations in six main categories:
- Engineering and Technology
- Medical and Health Sciences
- Mathematics and Computer Science
- Physical and Biological Sciences
- Chemical Sciences
- Sustainable Development
The 1st MWIT Symphony Orchestra
A special performance featuring “Melody of Sritrang” and “Yam Yen” compositions.
ISSN Joint Statement Signing Ceremony
A historic agreement among 25 leading science schools from 17 countries was signed, marking a significant step toward strengthening global collaboration in science education. Additionally, Dr. Worawarong Rakreungdet, Principal of Mahidol Wittayanusorn School, was officially announced as the new Chair of ISSN, further reinforcing the school’s leadership in international science education.
Art of Science and Innovation Exhibition
An exhibition showcased the fusion of art and science, where students expressed scientific concepts through artistic creations, judged by national artists and experts.
Welcome Dinner
A vibrant cultural night featuring traditional Thai dances, Khon performances, and music to welcome participants.
ISSN Executive Steering Committee – Principals’ Meeting
A key platform for executives and principals from 18 countries to discuss the future direction of ISSN and strengthen educational cooperation.
Teacher Sharing Session
Educators engaged in special lectures, research presentations, and workshops, fostering collaboration and knowledge exchange.
Variety Game Night
A fun and interactive event promoting teamwork and friendship among students from different countries.
Scientific Workshops
Diverse workshops, for example: Collaborative Telerobotics (Rescue Robotics), Internet of Things (Smart Home Project) and Sustainable Product Design (SDGs Workshop).
Scientific and Cultural Excursions
Participants explored key scientific and cultural sites, such as Field Robotics Institute (FIBO), Faculty of Medical Science, Chulalongkorn University and Temple of the Emerald Buddha & ICONSIAM
Cultural Night
The final evening featured multinational student performances and traditional Thai cuisine, fostering international friendship.
Closing Ceremony & Handover to ISSF 2026
ISSF 2025 concluded with a grand closing ceremony, where the hosting responsibility was officially handed over to the Australian Science and Mathematics School (ASMS), Australia, the host of ISSF 2026.
A Legacy for the Future
ISSF 2025 was not just a science fair, it was a global movement fostering the next generation of scientists, innovators, and leaders. The event demonstrated that youth and science have the power to shape a brighter, sustainable future for the world.
