To further the objectives of "National Science Popularization Month" and ignite a passion for scientific discovery among young minds, while strengthening practical skills, the county's 2026 campaign, headlined by its first-ever Youth Aviation Modeling and Drone Education Competition, was held at the county sports ground on September 19.
The event was jointly organized by the County Association for Science and Technology and the County Education and Sports Bureau. It was professionally managed by the Lüliang Aviation Sports Association, with support from the County Development, Reform, Industry, Information, Technology and Commerce Bureau, the County Red Cross Society, and the County Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital. Distinguished leaders from various county departments were present for the opening.
Over one hundred young contestants from numerous local primary and secondary schools took part, transforming the venue into a vibrant showcase of scientific talent where learning was driven by healthy competition. The contest featured a comprehensive and highly specialized structure tailored to students' STEM education. It traversed three primary categories—aviation models, space models, and drones—eventually branching into specific disciplines like basic rubber-band powered aircraft, hand-launched glider distance challenges, water rocket target practice, third-person drone racing, and drone football.
Adhering to standard competition regulations, the event placed contestants under comprehensive scrutiny. From on-site construction and calibration of models to aerial combat and precision target strikes, participants were tested on their dexterity, spatial awareness, and capacity to adapt under pressure. Throughout the day, the young pilots handled their tasks with cool-headed focus and precise control. The sight of numerous model aircraft and drones smoothly ascending and maneuvering sharply on target was a clear demonstration of the students' eagerness to explore and their solid grounding in scientific practice.
After an intense day of competition, the judges finalized the results. Awards for first, second, and third place were conferred, along with honorable mentions, thereby bringing the contest to a successful conclusion.
Wang Shuya, a student from Shilou No.1 Middle School, shared her enthusiasm: "I'm delighted to have taken part in this aerospace modeling contest. I learned scientific knowledge and improved my hands-on abilities here. In my future studies, I will strive to deepen my scientific understanding and embrace innovation."
This contest marked a flagship activity within the county's "National Science Popularization Month." By effectively dismantling conventional classroom barriers through an immersive and hands-on competitive format, it substantially fueled the youngsters' zeal for pursuing scientific dreams. It successfully carried out its crucial objective of promoting scientific thought, fostering a scientific spirit, cultivating a deeper innovative foundation, and grooming future technological talent.
Yue Fengsheng, Chairman of the County Association for Science and Technology, remarked, "During National Science Popularization Month, we initiated this first youth aviation modeling and drone education contest, moving science education from the classroom to the arena. This is intended to fully spark the enthusiasm of our county's youth for both loving and learning science. Using this event as our point of departure, we are dedicated to establishing a lasting county-level youth innovation brand. We will continuously enrich our science communication platforms and improve the scientific literacy of our youth, thereby contributing to the high-quality development of our county's educational and technological sectors."