The “AI for SDGs – Global Youth AI Future Innovation Competition 2025” successfully concluded on October 23 at The Londoner Macao, with Sands China Ltd. as the venue sponsor. Organized by the United Nations University Global AI Network and co-hosted by UNU Macau and Venture Cup China, the competition formed part of the UNU Macau Milestone Series. It commemorated the 80th anniversary of the United Nations and the 50th anniversary of the United Nations University, while placing youth-led innovation at the heart of the global sustainable development agenda.
This year’s competition was themed “AI for the Environment: Ecological Environment and Green Transition Challenges.” It attracted 131 proposals from 47 countries, including 36 submissions from the Global South—demonstrating the creativity and urgency of communities most affected by climate and development challenges.
After a rigorous selection process, 12 outstanding international teams advanced to the final round. They were joined by 3 local youth teams from Macao, selected by the Macau Computer Society. Altogether, 15 teams presented AI-powered solutions in Macao, addressing climate adaptation, environmental conservation, clean energy, and AI applications for less developed regions. These themes aligned with SDG 7 (Affordable and Clean Energy), SDG 10 (Reduced Inequalities), and SDG 13 (Climate Action).
At the opening ceremony, Professor Tshilidzi Marwala, Rector of the United Nations University and UN Under-Secretary-General, remarked: “This competition challenges young innovators to move from concept to impact. It’s a platform for youth to lead the digital transformation toward a sustainable future.”
“Today’s competition marks the beginning of the UNU Macau Milestone Series in celebration of UN80 and UNUat50, viewed through the lens of AI. Our keywords are: discuss, learn, and act. We will discuss AI tomorrow at the UNU Macau AI Conference, learn about AI during the AI Education Day on Saturday, and act with AI today,” said Dr. Jingbo Huang, Director of UNU Macau.
“At Sands China, ESG is not just a framework; it is a priority,” said Paulo Cheong, senior vice president of Human Resources for Sands China Ltd. “We strive to set a benchmark for excellence in ESG practices, and we believe that innovation, especially from the younger generation, is key to achieving that goal. The competition is a testament to the power of innovation, collaboration, and the boundless potential of our youth. We are thrilled to witness the ideas and solutions presented by these brilliant young minds. They are not only the innovators of tomorrow—they are the stewards of our environment and the guardians of our society. We are especially proud to see the participation of Macao’s local youth. Their creativity and commitment reinforce the region’s growing role in fostering social innovation and youth engagement in sustainable development. We believe that their contributions will help shape the future of Macao—and beyond.”
“The outcome of this competition is a solid demonstration of the Pact for the Future, and a living blueprint for the principles outlined in the Global Digital Compact,” said Jane Wu, Executive Director of Venture Cup China. “We deeply appreciate that the United Nations University has taken the lead in two of the most prominent areas in the AI space: youth and innovation. This leadership has enabled international civil society to take action and amplify social momentum. We look forward to expanding the network and engaging with more governments and public institutions around the world in next year’s AI competition.”
“We must put people and planet at the heart of our decisions and ensure that no one is left behind. And to achieve this, meaningful youth participation in policy making is essential. That’s why I am inspired by initiatives like this competition,” said Felipe Paullier, UN Assistant Secretary-General for Youth Affairs.
Following the competition, certificates and awards were presented by representatives including Mr. Carlos Roberto Xavier, Acting Deputy Director of the Education and Youth Development Bureau; Mr. Paulo Cheong of Sands China Ltd.; Ms. Paula Hidalgo-Sanchis, Coordinator of the UNU Global AI Network; Ms. Jane Wu; and Mr. Mathew Cheong of the Macau Computer Society.
Jury Panel Spanning Diverse Fields
The competition was evaluated by a panel of experts from across disciplines and regions, covering biodiversity, digital technology, carbon markets, and youth empowerment:
- Morten Ugelvig Andersen – Vice President, World Association of Young Scientists
- Bernard Cheng – Director of Sustainability, SJM Resorts; Member, UNU Global AI Network
- Jose Thomas Corthorn – Managing Director, CMPC Asia
- Paula Hidalgo-Sanchis – Senior Consultant, UNU Macau; Coordinator, UNU Global AI Network
- Meng Meng – General Manager, Macau International Carbon Emissions Exchange
- Shaun Martin – Senior Project Manager, WWF Asia-Pacific; Member, UNU Global AI Network
- Miao Kai – President, Macao Association for Young Scientists
- Stephanie Zhao – Associate Director of Sustainability, Sands China Ltd.
Global Teams Compete Side by Side
The 12 international finalist teams hailed from China (Beijing, Tianjin, Macao), Singapore, Morocco, Brazil, Mongolia, Pakistan, Canada, the United States, and France. They gathered in Macao to present AI-driven solutions addressing climate resilience, biodiversity loss, carbon emissions, and green infrastructure. Each project demonstrated strong innovation and digital capability, while remaining grounded in local context and community needs—highlighting the critical role of youth in advancing sustainable development, particularly in the Global South.
Three local youth teams from Macao, selected from 22 entries by the Macau Computer Society, also took the stage. Representing Lou Hau High School, the University of Macau Affiliated School, and St. Joseph Diocesan College Fifth School, their projects focused on smart air-conditioning, automated plant nutrition systems, and intelligent gardening—showcasing the creativity and commitment of Macao’s next generation of changemakers.
Winners Announced at UN80 and UNUat50 Celebration Dinner
Following the competition, certificates and awards were presented by representatives including Mr. Carlos Roberto Xavier, Acting Deputy Director of the Education and Youth Development Bureau; Mr. Paulo Cheong of Sands China Ltd.; Ms. Paula Hidalgo-Sanchis, Coordinator of the UNU Global AI Network; Ms. Jane Wu; and Mr. Mathew Cheong of the Macau Computer Society.
The final winners will be announced at the “UN80 and UNUat50 Celebration Dinner” on October 24. Each winning team will receive cash prizes and a growth support package, including pilot opportunities in China to help bring their innovations to life.
Youth Innovation Driving the SDGs
Beyond the competition, the event served as a dynamic platform to advance the SDGs through scalable, tech-enabled solutions. Many finalist projects demonstrated strong potential to move from prototype to deployment, particularly in communities facing climate vulnerability and digital divides.
The event was hosted by the UNU Global AI Network, a multilateral initiative launched at the 2024 UNU Macau AI Conference. The Network connects researchers, practitioners, and institutions worldwide to promote inclusive innovation and AI for sustainable development, with a special focus on the Global South.
The competition was guided by the United Nations University and initiated by the UNU Global AI Network. It was co-organized by UNU Macau and the China-Nordic Innovation Center, with academic support from the Institute for AI International Governance at Tsinghua University. The Macao local track was organized by the Macau Computer Society.
Learn more about the competition: https://unu.edu/macau/youthaicompetition
Learn more about UNU Macau: https://unu.edu/macau
Learn more about the UNU Global AI Network: https://unu.edu/unu-global-ai-network
Media contact: Mr. Qian Dai, Communications and External Relations Officer, UNU Macau, dai@unu.edu
