The Final Round of School-Level Science and Technology Research Competition, held on October 7, 2026, showcased WASSers’ passion, ambition, and impressive scientific thinking. Let’s look back at how these young researchers pushed boundaries and presented innovative models with practical applications.
Can banana peels become an alternative material for sustainable fashion? How can AI help students manage their studies and reduce stress? Can biomaterials help remove antibiotic residues from the environment?
These are just some of the research projects presented by WASSers at the Final Round of the School-Level Science and Technology Research Competition 2026.
After a month of research, testing, and refinement following the Preliminary Round, 11 outstanding teams advanced to the final stage, presenting ideas shaped by keen observation, scientific curiosity, and a desire to address real-world challenges.
When real-world issues inspire research
Covering the environment, health, technology, education, and social behavior, this year’s projects reflected the diverse interests and research approaches of WASSers.
In materials science and environmental research, students investigated the use of biomaterials to adsorb antibiotic residues, developed banana peel-based bio-composites, explored pomelo peel as a source of biodegradable packaging, and repurposed waste materials to create products that absorb excess oil.
In technology and education, projects such as StudyPet AI and a personal finance management application aimed to address needs relevant to students’ daily lives. Meanwhile, studies examining the relationship between electronic device use and academic procrastination, as well as societal responses to sexual abuse, offered thought-provoking perspectives on human behavior and community responsibility.
Beyond their practical applications, these projects shared a common strength: the ability to turn observed problems into research questions that could be investigated, analyzed, and tested.
Scientific thinking in every argument
At the Final Round, teams were expected to do more than presenting their ideas or demonstrating their products. They also had to explain their theoretical foundations, research methodologies, findings, and the feasibility of their proposed solutions to the Judging Panel.
Each critical question challenged students to revisit their hypotheses, support their arguments with evidence, recognize research limitations, and refine their approaches.
This reflects a core value of research-based education: students move beyond acquiring knowledge to developing the ability to ask questions, seek evidence, analyze data, and draw well-founded conclusions.
From the School-Level Final Round to the City-Level Competition
WASS congratulates all 11 teams on completing this challenging research process with dedication and determination. Every project demonstrated the students’ perseverance, collaboration, and ability to apply knowledge across disciplines.
Notably, 8 outstanding projects were selected to represent WASS at the City-Level Science and Technology Research Competition, where students will have further opportunities to exchange ideas, receive expert feedback, and strengthen their research skills in a more challenging academic environment.
Scientific research does not end when a competition concludes. Every question raised, hypothesis tested, and result analyzed marks another step toward becoming independent learners who think critically and are prepared to develop solutions for the future.
WASS wishes our “researchers” continued curiosity, academic confidence, and a lasting passion for knowledge as they take on the challenges ahead!
