Students compete in the 7th Qidong Youth Science and Technology Innovation Invitational. [Photo/Nantong Daily]

The 7th Qidong Youth Science and Technology Innovation Invitational was held at Diehu Middle School on Nov 1, with students from schools across Qidong coming together to compete and demonstrate their creativity and scientific thinking.

The competition was open to students from kindergarten to secondary school, divided into five groups according to grade level.

The event consisted of two main stages. First, participants completed a 20-minute written quiz to test their knowledge of science and innovation. They then entered a 40-minute hands-on challenge, choosing from four types of projects: creative construction, C++ programming, drone racing, and logical reasoning.

For creative construction, students brought their own materials or pre-prepared works; the drone segment followed specific weight and motor requirements; and programming contestants worked in school-provided computer labs.

The invitational offered students a platform to demonstrate their thinking, imagination, and problem-solving abilities, as well as an opportunity to showcase their individuality and confidence. Many participants said that in addition to learning about science, they also acquired a spirit of persistent exploration—learning to reflect, adjust, and try again after each challenge.