"Technology That Respects Humanity"

In today’s digital age, technology touches nearly every part of our lives—from how we stay connected to how decisions are made about education, healthcare, and justice. While it has the power to solve big problems and drive progress, it also creates serious ethical challenges. Issues like data breaches that expose personal information, algorithms that reinforce bias, and a lack of accountability in tech design have real consequences for individuals and communities, often deepening inequality and eroding trust. The truth is, that innovation is moving faster than our ability to keep it fair, and this gap puts basic human rights at risk.

These problems aren’t abstract—they’re happening now. Studies show that facial recognition technology is significantly less accurate for women and people of color, and billions of personal records are compromised in data breaches every year. If we don’t address these issues, the consequences will only grow.

We Must Act Now!

Prompts

1. “AI is a rare case where I think we need to be proactive in regulation than be reactive.” ― Elon Musk. How do you understand this quote?

2. How can we balance the benefits of technological innovation with the need to protect human rights?

3. Who should be held accountable when technology causes harm—developers, companies, or regulators?

4. Share a personal story or experience with technology ethics and how it affected you or someone you know.

All candidates must answer one of these questions via writing, speech, or artwork.

Entry Requirements

Entry is open to students from any country and any school. Candidates must be 20 years old, or younger, on the date of the submission deadline.

Key Dates​​

Submission deadline: EST 11:59 PM on 1st April 2025

Short-listed candidates will be notified before 15th May 2025

Winners will be announced on 1st June 2025

Awards
Each major category will award one Grand Prize, First Prize, Second Prize, Third Prize, and Short-list. The Grand Prize winner will receive a cash prize of $150 or 1000 RMB.

Prompts

How can we ensure technological advancement benefits all members of the society equally? Consider issues of access, bias, and ethical development.

All candidates must answer the question in writing.

Entry Requirements

Entry is open to students from any country and any school. Candidates must be 15 years old, or younger, on the date of the submission deadline.

Key Dates​​

Submission deadline: EST 11:59 PM on 1st April 2025

Short-listed candidates will be notified on 15th May 2025

Winners will be announced on 1st June 2025

Awards
This competition will award one Grand Prize, First Prize, Second Prize, Third Prize, and Short-list. The Grand Prize winner will receive a $150 or 1000 CNY cash prize.