UNC Charlotte has been selected to host the United States leg of a competition for one of the world’s most prestigious awards in water-related research. The Stockholm Junior Water Prize is presented to one high school student annually for research in water and sustainability issues. In an effort led by the Center for STEM Education, UNC Charlotte bested proposals from universities across the country to host the competition through 2018.
Each year, thousands of participants from more than 30 countries join competitions to vie for the chance to represent their nations at the international final held during World Water Week in Stockholm. The national and international competitions are open to individuals from age 15 to 20 who have conducted water-related projects of proven environmental, scientific, social or technological significance. The winner of the Stockholm Junior Water Prize receives a $15,000 award, a blue crystal prize sculpture, a diploma as well as the stay in Stockholm.
“The Center for STEM Education is excited to be part of this event and to assist the Water Environment Federation in planning for this prestigious competition,” said David Pugalee, director of the UNC Charlotte Center for STEM Education. “Water is our most important natural resources, and the world faces significant challenges around access and availability of clean water.”
Finalists from the participating countries are invited to Stockholm for five consecutive days where they actively take part in the global conference through a variety of activities. American Perry Alagappan won the award in 2015 for inventing a filter to remove heavy metals from drinking water.
Pugalee said hosting the competition provides an opportunity to advance the dialogue on an important environmental issue.
“This event engages high school students in considering solutions to these challenges. It has tremendous potential to raise awareness around water challenges. The Center for STEM Education will use this event to promote statewide outreach focused on how STEM can address our global, state and local water challenges. It will be a wonderful catalyst to promote student interest in STEM research related to water issues,” he said.
Pugalee noted that the success of the Center for STEM Education in outreach efforts across the state and an established track record of STEM competitions and student events was an important part of UNC Charlotte’s selection.
“Our facilities are also a great match for hosting this event. The entire UNC Charlotte community, including our student chapter of the North Carolina American Water Works Association and Water Environment Association will be involved in making this event a success and in showcasing UNC Charlotte as a leading urban research university.”
Image of Stockholm Junior Water Prize award sculpture provided by the Stockholm International Water Institute.