The 2nd Conference of Asian National Young Academies was recently held in Hyderabad, India, co-hosted by the Indian National Young Academy of Sciences (INYAS), the Institute of Technology Hyderabad, the Global Young Academy (GYA), and the Indian National Science Academy (INSA), with support from the International Science Council (ISC).

Invited by INYAS, representatives from the World Association of Young Scientists (WAYS) joined delegates from over ten countries and regions, including Australia, New Zealand, Bangladesh, and Thailand, to explore regional cooperation strategies and develop action plans to enhance the collective influence of young science academies in Asia.

Participants shared insights on institutional structures, capacity-building under limited funding, and international collaboration. Discussions highlighted best practices in organizing activities, building global networks, and shaping future development plans. The event laid the groundwork for a stronger regional network of young scientists.

Youth academies were recognized not only as incubators of scientific innovation, but also as key players in regional science policy, public engagement, and responsible science communication. WAYS emphasized the need for sustained dialogue, practical cooperation, and resource sharing, and called on young scientists to harness collective wisdom and collaboration to advance scientific innovation and societal progress in the Asia-Pacific region.

Source: World Association of Young Scientists