Indian Students Win Monash University Challenge in Australia

Melbourne, Australia – A team of students from The Indian Public School, Coimbatore, has emerged as the winners of the prestigious Monash University Change It Challenge in Melbourne. The winning trio, Srivatsav, Srinivas, and Sriram, impressed the judges with their insightful presentation on the environmental impact of rising temperatures and methane emissions.

Their innovative solution involved the use of a biogas generator to convert cow dung into renewable and clean energy, a project that aligns with global sustainability efforts. The students expressed their gratitude for the opportunity, emphasizing the invaluable experience of meeting peers from different countries and engaging with world-renowned academics.

“The week was not just an opportunity to challenge ourselves, but also a chance to connect with students worldwide who share our passion for positive change. We’ve embraced new cultures, formed friendships, and gained inspiration from being part of a global community,” the team from Coimbatore shared.

Monash University’s Global Impact

Monash University’s Deputy Vice-Chancellor (International) and Senior Vice President, Professor Craig Jeffrey, lauded the participants, stating, “The Change It Challenge Grand Final provided students with a platform to contribute ideas that could make a real difference. The competition reflects Monash University’s dedication to international collaboration and the power of global ideas.”

The competition also saw remarkable performances from students across the world. Second place was secured by Neyja, Michelle, and Anna from Taman Rama Intercultural School Bali, who presented innovative ways to reduce, reuse, and recycle to protect Bali’s ocean ecosystem. Third place went to Aditya from International School Dhaka, who proposed eco-friendly solutions utilizing water hyacinths to create sustainable products like paper and baskets.

A Platform for Change

The Change It Challenge encourages high school students to address pressing global issues related to climate change and thriving communities. Participants were encouraged to leverage research, education, and innovation to develop impactful solutions. This year’s event attracted students from India, Thailand, China, South Korea, Bangladesh, and Indonesia.

As part of their visit to Melbourne, the finalists explored Monash University’s world-class Clayton and Caulfield campuses, attended an academic roundtable with university leaders, and engaged with researchers from Monash Assistive Technology and Society Centre and Monash Gender, Peace and Security Centre.

The challenge continues to inspire young minds worldwide, empowering them to develop solutions that contribute to a more sustainable and inclusive future.