VOI - Voice of Indonesia | RRI - Radio Republik Indonesia

Photo: UGM/kuasakata

Students from Jogjakarta-based Gadjah Mada University (UGM) have once again made the university proud. A team of the university’s students won a silver medal at the International Youth Summit (IYS) 2024. This event, held by Universitas Putera Malaysia on November 9–10, 2024, is an international competition for essays and scientific presentations. The Gadjah Mada University’s team impressed the judges with their project titled “Boba Bean: An Innovative Instant Red Bean Beverage for Anemia Prevention Among Adolescents.” Boba Bean is a red bean-based drink designed to help prevent anemia in teenagers by providing an easy and nutritious way to boost iron intake.

The idea for this project came from the high number of anemia cases in Indonesia, especially among teenage girls. Many people find iron pills or supplements hard to take, so the team wanted to create a simpler and more enjoyable solution. During the competition, the team had the chance to present their project to international judges and visitors and even showcased their product by serving Boba Bean on the spot.

The judges praised the project for its creative and research-driven approach. Boba Bean also supports Sustainable Development Goal 3, which focuses on health and well-being. The team hopes their product can be developed further and benefit more people. Winning the silver medal at International Youth Summit (IYS) 2024 not only brought pride to Gadjah Mada University but also inspired young Indonesians to keep innovating and achieving at an international level.