From March 15 to 16, 2025, the Diploma Programme (DP) students of the International Baccalaureate (IB) at the Yerevan High School of the National Polytechnic University of Armenia participated in a CAS short-term international experience hosted by UWC Dilijan, as part of the innovative “Smart Bins” project.

This educational initiative was held within the framework of the mandatory “Creativity, Activity, Service” (CAS) component of the IB programme and aimed to enhance students’ creativity, analytical thinking, and collaborative skills, while also deepening their technological and scientific knowledge.

During the experience, IB DP students collaborated with their peers from UWC Dilijan, working together on the design and programming of smart waste bins—an effort that combined technological innovation with environmental sustainability. The project integrated the disciplines of Computer Science and Design Technology, allowing participants to apply interdisciplinary and hands-on approaches to programming, engineering, and device design.

This dynamic learning environment nurtured not only students’ technical proficiencies but also their creative thinking, emphasizing the significance of scientific inquiry and innovative problem-solving. Through teamwork and real-world application, students developed leadership qualities, communication skills, and a sense of shared responsibility.

In addition, the project was aligned with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), offering students the opportunity to explore their global impact and design solutions that contribute to a more sustainable future. By connecting their project-based work to global standards, participants gained a deeper understanding of environmental responsibility and the role of youth in advancing meaningful change on a global scale.

The CAS experience significantly contributed to the development of all ten core attributes of the IB Learner Profile, preparing students to become well-rounded, principled, and globally-minded individuals ready to lead and contribute toward making the world a better place.