In today's age, cancer is a term that resonates with fear and uncertainty for many. Misconceptions abound, with many associating this formidable disease with mere bad luck. The mere mention of "cancer" can send ripples of alarm through communities. According to recent U.S. statistics, an alarming percentage of the population - 37% of women and 42% of men - will face cancer at some point in their lives. To put this into a more tangible perspective, in an average family comprising eight members, including grandparents, parents, and two children, the likelihood of at least one member being diagnosed with cancer is a staggering 90%. Such statistics aren't just numbers; they depict an unavoidable reality.

From July 8th to July 13th, the ZJUintl-China 2023 team embarked on an enlightening journey, targeting the secluded mountainous villages of Meitan, Guizhou, and Jingdong, Yunnan. These remote regions, often overlooked, became the center of our mission. Our commitment was to bring essential cancer awareness to the communities that needed it most, particularly focusing on the impressionable minds of the local children.

To confront this reality, the best weapon is knowledge. Our iGEM team was driven by this belief when we decided to take on the mantle of educators in the mountain village of Meitan. Our educational approach was tailored to our young audience. Employing a relaxed and friendly tone, our educators broke down complex topics, introducing the children to the fundamentals of cancer - what it is, the unique characteristics of cancer cells, and the prevailing methods of treatment. The focus wasn't just on imparting knowledge but also on making learning engaging. This was evident when we showcased a brief yet captivating PowerPoint presentation about our iGEM project, providing a glimpse into the exhilarating world of scientific research.

Our teaching mission was multifaceted. While our primary objective was educational, ZJUintl-China 2023 aimed to achieve more. We endeavored not only to address the immediate educational needs of the children but also to highlight the broader impact of cancer on lives and health. By bringing awareness about cancer and introducing innovative scientific research ideas, we hoped to instill in the children fundamental concepts about cancer prevention and kindle an interest in scientific research, especially in the realm of cancer treatment.

Our engagement wasn't limited to lectures. We employed a diverse array of educational and promotional techniques, ranging from science exhibitions to interactive games, ensuring that learning was dynamic and enjoyable. Our aim was twofold: to impart cancer knowledge and inculcate scientific thinking while simultaneously spurring the children to consider a future in scientific research.

In essence, the mission of ZJUintl-China 2023 extended beyond the mere dissemination of knowledge. Our vision was to plant the seeds of science deep within these young hearts. By doing so, we aspired to cultivate a future generation that not only understands and appreciates science but also actively engages with it, thereby contributing significantly to the scientific community and, by extension, to human health and well-being.