Students at BCIS recently had remarkable success in the prestigious Global Impact Writing Challenge (GIWC), organized by China Daily. This competition invites young minds to tackle pressing issues linked to the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) principles. It is a platform that tests not only their writing skills but also their ability to propose meaningful, innovative solutions to global challenges. 

BCIS students excelled on this international stage, earning 5 global gold medals, 1 silver medal, 9 bronze medals，11 regional gold awards，27 regional silver awards, 15 regional bronze medals across elementary and middle school categories. These accolades reflected not only their exceptional writing abilities but also their deep and authentic understanding of the issues at hand. Their achievements highlighted critical thinking, creativity, and the school’s emphasis on developing global citizens prepared to address the complexities of the modern world. 

At BCIS, learning begins with curiosity—a drive to ask “why” and seek meaningful answers. This mindset was evident in the way students approached the competition, connecting their personal experiences to broader global concerns.

Take Esther, for instance, an elementary school gold medalist. What began as a simple task—cleaning the litter boxes at her family’s pet store—turned into an exploration of sustainability. Noticing the staggering amount of waste generated by 20 cats overnight, Esther delved into research about the environmental impact of traditional cat litter. Her proposed solution? A water-soluble, plant-based litter designed to reduce soil and air pollution. Esther’s ability to transform an everyday observation into a sustainable innovation exemplifies the curiosity and problem-solving encouraged at BCIS. 

Seconry school student Michelle, another gold medalist, approached the challenge from a different angle. Fascinated by the interplay of technology, economic growth, and environmental protection, she analyzed how these forces can coexist harmoniously. Drawing on ESG principles, Michelle’s essay proposed ways to balance technological advancement with environmental sustainability. “The competition gave me a chance to dive deeper into something I’ve always been curious about,” she explained. Her work demonstrated how research and critical inquiry can lead to nuanced, actionable solutions.

Yuchen, a Grade 11 student, tackled the complexities of cross-sector collaboration in addressing ESG challenges. His essay argued that governments and businesses must work together to solve critical issues like herbicide pollution. By citing real-world examples—such as Tesla’s partnership with the U.S. government to advance clean energy and Coca-Cola’s efforts to combat plastic waste in Indonesia—Yuchen made a compelling case for stronger cooperation. His thoughtful analysis earned him international recognition and a gold medal.

The achievements of BCIS students at the GIWC are no accident—they are the result of an educational philosophy that places global citizenship at its core. From a young age, students are encouraged to engage with real-world challenges, reflect on their responsibilities, and take action.

Esther credited the school’s IB curriculum for fostering her early understanding of global issues. “In second grade, my teacher suggested books on the Black Death to spark my curiosity,” she shared. “By third grade, I was actively participating in the ‘Eco-Warriors’ club, organizing campus cleanups and pollution awareness campaigns. I learned that small actions can have a big impact.”  Similarly, Judith, another elementary student, used research skills learned in maths class to create a data visualization report for her writing. Her topic—plastic waste—led her to propose solutions like reducing unnecessary toy purchases.

For older students like Yuchen, BCIS’concept-based teaching model provided a broader perspective. “The curriculum exposed me to all 17 SDGs,” he said. “In geography class, I explored population migration and resource scarcity, and the Grade 10 Individuals and Societies helped me understand how economic growth can align with sustainability.” Through initiatives like designing a rainwater harvesting system for his community, Yuchen saw firsthand how education can lead to real-world impact.

BCIS’ commitment to global citizenship is woven into every aspect of its curriculum and culture. The school’s learner profile and core values guide students not just toward academic excellence but also toward meaningful, responsible action. As Shaoyi, another award-winning student, put it: “BCIS has shaped the way I think and act. It’s not just about learning facts—it’s about applying them to make a difference.”

This holistic approach to education empowers students to go beyond simply understanding global challenges; they are equipped to address them with confidence and creativity. Whether through personal observations, collaborative projects, or analytical research, BCIS students are demonstrating what it means to be engaged, thoughtful global citizens. Their success at the GIWC is a testament to the school’s value: preparing young minds to shape the future, not just describe it.