On Tuesday 26 August 2025, the Fondation Jeunes Scientifiques Luxembourg (FJSL) reported on the participation of student Maxime Buck in a scientific challenge at the China Adolescents Science & Technology Innovation Contest (CASTIC).

The event, one of the world’s largest youth science competitions, took place in Hohhot, Inner Mongolia, China. It welcomed 50 international participants, more than 500 Chinese students and featured hands-on challenges that tested the youths’ ability to think on their feet and work autonomously. 

Maxime Buck’s project earned recognition placing him in the upper tier of competitors. For his achievement, he received a cash prize of 3,000 Yuan (€380) from the Organising Committee.

The FJSL reported that beyond the scientific competition, the delegation was warmly received by the Luxembourg Ambassador to China, with opportunities to engage in cultural exchanges, visit iconic sites such as the Forbidden City and the Great Wall, explore the richness of Chinese Mongolian traditions and connect with Chinese and international students on the topic of science.

“CASTIC was not only an extraordinary science competition, but also the perfect platform to connect and exchange with like-minded people from around the world,” said Maxime Buck. He added: “On top of that, I had the chance to fulfil four childhood dreams at once: visiting the Forbidden City, climbing the Great Wall, tasting authentic Wagyu beef and dining at an automated conveyor-belt sushi restaurant.”

The FJSL noted that its presence at CASTIC highlighted Luxembourg’s contribution in fostering international cooperation and nurturing young talent and said FJSL Director, Sousana Eang, had engaged with more than twenty Chinese and international participants, selecting six to receive the Luxembourg International Science Expo (LISE) award. 

This year, three Chinese students were selected as future recipients of the Luxembourg International Science Expo (LISE) award, which will bring outstanding young researchers to Luxembourg in 2026. Another three – from the UK, Vietnam and Kazakhstan – were invited to join LISE this year.

The FJSL said these exchanges “reinforce a unique platform for dialogue and cooperation in science, innovation and education, supporting the next generation of problem-solvers both in Luxembourg and abroad”.

The trip to CASTIC was made possible through the support of the Fondation Lanners.