Deadline: 14-Jun-2026
The 5th Nikkei Asia Award recognizes Asian-led innovations that advance STEM education for girls in underserved regions. The award highlights initiatives that drive social transformation, improve lives, and strengthen regional development, while also offering mentorship opportunities connecting students with STEM professionals. Nominations must be submitted by third parties only.
The Nikkei Asia Award celebrates innovation originating in Asia, with a special focus on advancing STEM education for girls in underserved and marginalized regions.
The initiative highlights efforts that contribute to building a more inclusive, innovative, and prosperous society across Asia.
Program Objectives
The award aims to:
- Promote STEM education for girls in underserved regions
- Recognize Asian-origin innovation with social impact
- Encourage societal transformation through science and technology
- Strengthen regional development and inclusion
- Support mentorship and long-term student development
It emphasizes both innovation and educational empowerment.
Key Focus Areas
STEM Education and Inclusion
- Expanding STEM access for girls
- Supporting underserved and marginalized communities
- Encouraging participation in science and technology fields
Social Innovation
- Transformative community-based initiatives
- Regional development and social improvement
- Projects improving quality of life
Mentorship and Capacity Building
- Connecting students with scientists and engineers
- Career guidance in STEM fields
- National and international mentorship networks
Program Features
- Recognition of innovation originating in Asia
- Emphasis on societal transformation and inclusion
- Long-term mentorship opportunities for students
- Engagement with STEM professionals across countries
- Focus on building a free, prosperous, and inclusive society
Who is Eligible?
Eligibility includes:
- Individuals or organizations based in Asia
- Projects contributing to social transformation and regional development
- Initiatives focused on innovation and societal impact
Important Conditions
- Nominations must be submitted by third parties only
- Self-nominations are not allowed
- Activities must demonstrate measurable social or educational impact
Why It Matters
This award is important because it:
- Promotes gender equality in STEM education
- Supports underserved communities in Asia
- Encourages innovation with social impact
- Builds mentorship pipelines for future scientists and engineers
- Strengthens regional development through education
It helps bridge the gender gap in science and technology fields.
How It Works / How to Apply
Follow these steps for nomination:
- Identify Eligible Initiative
Select an innovation contributing to STEM education for girls. - Prepare Nomination Materials
Document impact, innovation, and social outcomes. - Submit Third-Party Nomination
Ensure submission is made by an eligible nominator (not self-nomination). - Evaluation Process
Projects are reviewed based on innovation, impact, and regional contribution. - Selection of Awardees
Winners are selected for their contribution to STEM and society. - Recognition and Mentorship
Selected initiatives may receive visibility and mentorship support.
Tips for Strong Nominations
- Clearly show impact on girls’ STEM education
- Highlight innovation and scalability
- Provide measurable social outcomes
- Demonstrate regional or community transformation
- Include mentorship or capacity-building components
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Self-nominations (not allowed)
- Weak evidence of educational impact
- Lack of focus on STEM education
- Vague or non-scalable initiatives
- Missing regional relevance
FAQs
What is the Nikkei Asia Award about?
It recognizes Asian innovations that advance STEM education for girls and social development.
Who can be nominated?
Individuals or organizations based in Asia working on impactful innovation.
Can I apply directly?
No, only third-party nominations are accepted.
What is the main focus area?
STEM education for girls in underserved regions.
Does the award include mentorship support?
Yes, it connects students with STEM professionals for guidance.
What type of impact is expected?
Social transformation, education improvement, and regional development.
Which region is eligible?
Asia only.
Conclusion
The Nikkei Asia Award (5th Edition) highlights impactful innovations that expand STEM education for girls across Asia. By combining recognition with mentorship and regional development goals, it supports long-term social transformation and helps build a more inclusive and knowledge-driven society.
For more information, visit Nikkei.