some news from UN Youth flash

UNESCO - Goi Peace Foundation International Essay Contest 2009

Through the annual essay competitions, UNESCO and the Goi Peace Foundation encourage young people to share their vision for the future. The theme for this year's contest is "The role of science in building a better world". Scientific progress has brought many benefits to humanity, while some applications of science have had adverse impacts. Through the competition young people will answer questions such as "What kind of science and technology do you think is needed for realizing a more equitable, prosperous and sustainable world for all? The deadline for entry is 30 June 2009. Please see the complete guidelines at http://www.goipeace.or.jp/english/activities/programs/0901.html

UNESCO Biodiversity awards for young scientists

Young scientists from around the world working on projects ranging from working to conserve mangrove forests in Iran to conserving orchids in Cuba have been recognized by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) for their work on biodiversity. Eleven people have been selected as winners of UNESCO's 2009 Man and the Biosphere (MAB) Young Scientist Awards, and they will each receive a cash price of up to $5,000 for their research on ecosystems and biodiversity focusing on sustainable interaction between people and their environment. Biosphere reserves are sites taking innovative approaches to conservation, ecological sciences and sustainable development which are recognized under UNESCO’s MAB Programme. Currently, there are 531 such sites in over 100 countries. More information: http://www.un.org/apps/news/story.asp?NewsID=29934&Cr=unesco&Cr1=youth