New-Generation Youth Learn "Science Communication" Through the Thai Science Youth Camp, Sparking Future Career Ideas for a Sustainable World
Boong Panitipong Chooprasertchok, a 2nd-year Computer Science student in the School of Information Technology and Innovation, has been selected as one of 10 representatives of the 21st Young Thai Science Ambassador program, earning the title of "National Outstanding Science Communicator." He took part in a science communication development camp under the theme "Future Green Jobs," which aims to build skills in conveying scientific and technological knowledge to the general public in a way that is easy to understand, clear, and well-targeted.
From the Idea of "Ants" to the Logistics System of the Future
Applicants for the program had to submit a self-introduction video presenting an idea related to science or future careers. Boong proposed applying ant behavior to modern logistics systems: "Ants have an efficient system for managing routes and transporting food — even in large numbers, they move in a highly organized way. This idea could be combined with AI and data analytics to develop transport systems that reduce redundant trips, cut energy use, and help lower greenhouse gas emissions."
Before the camp, more than 40 selected participants completed an online course to build foundational skills in communication, presentation, and scientific knowledge to prepare them for the hands-on activities.
Behind the Scenes of Journalism at Thai PBS
The camp ran for 3 days and 2 nights. On the first day, participants visited Thai Public Broadcasting Service (Thai PBS) to learn about the media production process — from news production and fact-checking to fake-news prevention and the technology used in live broadcasting.
Boong said the experience opened his eyes to a new perspective on communication. Although he isn't studying communication arts directly, he saw how presenting accurate and engaging information plays a key role in building public understanding. After the study visit, participants returned to the camp venue to stay overnight and continue with learning activities and workshops.
Learning About Green Cities Through the Case Study of Freiburg, Germany
Another key activity featured expert speakers from Germany, in cooperation with the Goethe-Institut, who presented ideas on green cities, clean energy, and sustainable urban development through the case study of Freiburg, Germany.
Freiburg is held up as a successful example of a Green City and Smart City, having developed clean energy systems, reduced pollution, and built concrete cooperation among citizens, government, and the business sector.
What impressed Boong most was the concept of public "Awareness" as the crucial starting point for change: "I never knew before that green city development could happen in such a systematic way. Freiburg showed me that change doesn't start with the government alone — it starts with citizens who see the environmental impact and step up to get involved."
He added: "In the past, Freiburg had an issue involving a planned nuclear power plant, which led citizens to take a stand and call for more environmentally friendly urban development. This led to cooperation among citizens, local organizations, government, and businesses — driving the promotion of clean energy such as solar power, pollution reduction, and even changes among local businesses, like restaurants and cafés switching to more eco-friendly, biodegradable materials."
He concluded: "What I learned is that a green city isn't created by any single agency — it comes from people in society who understand the problem and work together. When more people start taking action, it can genuinely scale up into city-wide change."
Practicing Science Communication Skills Through a 3-Minute Storytelling Challenge
After learning about green city concepts, all participants joined a science communication workshop led by trainers from the National Science Museum (NSM), who taught storytelling techniques, content structuring, and effective communication skills. The activity focused on helping participants identify key points, organize information, and present scientific stories concisely and clearly — with the challenge of presenting within just 3 minutes.
Boong closed the interview by saying: "Even though I was already fairly good at telling stories and explaining ideas, communicating within a limited time taught me to structure my message more clearly — choosing key points, building a logical sequence, and making sure the audience understands within a short timeframe."
The Thai Science Youth Camp is not only a space for learning about science and technology, but also an important platform for developing the communication skills of Thai youth — cultivating a new generation of science communicators who can connect knowledge with society and help drive future-career concepts for sustainable development.
