Frequently Asked Questions

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What is Open Idea Lab?

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We are a global, not-for-profit platform where students aged 8–17 work on real-world problems shared by scientists, researchers, and experts. Students explore ideas, propose solutions, and receive thoughtful, structured feedback to help them grow as thinkers.

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Who is this for?

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Any student aged 8–17, anywhere in the world, who is curious and enjoys thinking about real problems — regardless of background, grades, or prior experience.

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Is this free?

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Yes. The platform is completely free for all students.
We believe ideas can come from anywhere, and access should never depend on socio-economic background.

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What kind of problems will students work on?

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Problems are drawn from real scientific and societal challenges, across areas such as:

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• Climate & environment

• Health & medicine

• Technology & data

• Mathematics & systems thinking

• Society & policy

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All problems are designed to be age-appropriate, open-ended, and curiosity-driven.

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Do students compete with each other?

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No. This is not a competition.
There are no rankings, no winners or losers — the focus is on thinking, learning, and exploration.

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How do students participate?

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Students:

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1. Browse real-world problem statements

2. Choose what genuinely interests them

3. Work individually or in small groups

4. Submit their ideas on the platform

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They don’t need to “get the right answer” — only to think deeply.

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Who reviews the students’ ideas?

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Ideas go through a structured review process.Selected submissions are reviewed by scientists, researchers, and subject-matter experts, who provide age-appropriate, constructive feedback.

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What kind of feedback will students receive?

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Feedback focuses on:

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• Strengths in the student’s thinking

• New perspectives to consider

• Questions that encourage deeper exploration

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The goal is to build confidence and curiosity, not to judge.

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Will students receive certificates or recognition?

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Students whose submissions meet our guidelines will receive a participation certificate.
Some ideas may also be selected for advanced exploration or further development.

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Is this meant to replace school learning?

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No. This platform complements formal education.
It gives students early exposure to real problems, real thinking, and real feedback — things that often come much later in traditional pathways.

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Who are the mentors and advisors?

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Our mentors include leading scientists, researchers, and practitioners from around the world.
Engagement is light-touch and flexible, respecting their time while maximising inspiration for students.

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Can schools participate?

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Yes. We are working with schools globally, beginning with pilot schools in India, and expanding internationally.

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Can organisations or institutions partner with you?

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Absolutely. We welcome partnerships with:

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• Research institutions

• Think tanks

• Foundations

• Public-interest organisations

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Partners may contribute problem statements, reviews, or broader collaboration.

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How is the platform funded?

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We seek grants and philanthropic support to:

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• Encourage and recognise outstanding student ideas

• Support further development of promising ideas

• Keep the platform free and accessible to all
   

How can I get involved?

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• Students: Join and start exploring problems

• Mentors: Contribute problems or feedback

• Partners/Funders: Help us scale access and impact

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You can contact us through the website for more details.

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