Entries open for 2024 edition of Young Computer Scientist competition

The Ministry of Education, in collaboration with the Federation of Information Technology (Guarantee) Ltd. (FITIS) and the University of Colombo School of Computing (UCSC), launched the 23rd edition of the prestigious Young Computer Scientist (YCS) competition recently at the Ministry. 

The 22nd YCS was concluded successfully after a selection process involving 1,700 competitors which yielded nine winners. Two students also received Merit Awards at the Asia Pacific Information Technology Awards 2023 held in Hong Kong in December 2023.

Education Minister Dr. Susil Premajayantha, launched the YCS 2024 website allowing the students to register for the competition. During the Award Ceremony for YCS 2023, the Minister commented: “The YCS competition stands as a beacon of innovation and excellence, guiding our youth towards the forefront of technological advancement. It is through platforms like these that we pave the way for a digitally empowered nation.”

Echoing the Minister’s sentiments, FITIS Chairman Indika De Zoysa reiterated the organisation’s commitment to nurturing young talent and bridging the gap between academia and industry. “FITIS is proud to be part of this esteemed competition for the past 22 years. Our goal has always been to cultivate a vibrant ecosystem where young innovators thrive and contribute meaningfully to the ICT industry. The success stories that emerge from the YCS competition are a testament to the potential and promise of our youth,” remarked De Zoysa.

The YCS competition, a vital part of Sri Lanka’s educational landscape, aims to identify and nurture ICT talents among school children, fostering their development and integration into the industry. Over the past two decades, it has been a launch pad for many young minds, leading them to successful careers in technology.

The YCS 2024 competition invites applications from young innovators eager to showcase their talents. The application submission deadline is 1 September 2024, while the project submission deadline is 15 September 2024. Participants are encouraged to note these dates and prepare their innovative projects for a chance to be recognised among Sri Lanka’s brightest young minds in ICT.

Students can also register through the website of Ministry of Education by connecting to https://moe.gov.lk/2024/07/national-level-ict-championship-competition-2024/.