Empowering the next generation to co-create solutions for global challenges
MIRAI invites Master’s and PhD students from MIRAI member universities in Japan and Sweden to form international, interdisciplinary teams and develop innovative, feasible solutions to pressing global challenges.
This team-based Olympiad is designed to foster cross-border collaboration, creative problem-solving, and real-world impact, and is directly connected to the MIRAI Research & Innovation Week 2026, to be held in Fukuoka, Japan (8–11 December 2026).
Why Participate?
- Collaborate in international, interdisciplinary student teams
- Tackle real societal challenges linked to the UN Sustainable Development Goals
- Gain experience in innovation-driven research and solution design
- Present your work to an international audience at MIRAI R&I Week 2026
- Winning teams are invited to Fukuoka with travel and accommodation covered
Challenge Tracks
Teams will choose one of the following four challenge areas:
- Health and an Ageing Population (SDG 3)
- Climate Adaptation, Disaster and Risk Management (SDG 13)
- Resilient Cities and Communities: Governance and Urban Planning (SDG 11)
- Energy Conversion and Storage Materials for a Sustainable Future (SDG 7)
Each challenge calls for bold, evidence-based ideas that integrate perspectives from multiple disciplines and are relevant to both Japan and Sweden.
Programme Overview
- Online kick-off workshop: Late August / early September 2026
- Team working phase: Two weeks in mid-September 2026
- Final deliverable: Solution brief or pitch video
- Winner announcement: Early October 2026
- Final presentation: MIRAI Research & Innovation Week, Fukuoka (December 2026)
Eligibility at a Glance
- Master’s or PhD students at MIRAI member universities in Japan or Sweden
- Teams of up to four students (self-organised)
- English as the working language
- Strong commitment during the programme period
Application Deadline
🕒 16 August 2026, 23:45 CEST (17 August 2026, 06:45 JST)
👉 Apply as a team via the online application form
Students are encouraged to review the full call carefully and contact their MIRAI contact persons before submitting their application.