VUG Journal of Youth Research

Offline-First AI Tutoring Systems: Improving Personalized Learning for High School Students in Low-Connectivity Regions

This study surveys 30 high school students about AI tool usage for learning, revealing that while 83.3% use AI for homework help and report benefits like simplified explanations and time savings, 50% face barriers from limited internet access, leading to the conclusion that offline-first AI tutoring systems could bridge the digital divide and improve personalized learning in low-connectivity regions.

Dakshita Sharma · Daniel Omotoye (Advisor)

Cultural Preferences Vs. Digital Exposure: Primary Influence on Nigerian Students’ Tech Career Aspirations

This study examines whether cultural preferences or digital exposure primarily influences Nigerian students' tech career aspirations through surveys and interviews, finding that 68.6% identify traditional careers as most respected while only 20% of secondary students have learned digital skills, concluding that both factors are deeply intertwined in shaping career decisions.

Daniel Omotoye · Mehjabin Majid (Advisor) · Alina Usman (Advisor)

The Shadow Supply Chain: Cybersecurity Risks in AI Hardware and Semiconductor Manufacturing

This research investigates cybersecurity risks in semiconductor manufacturing supply chains, focusing on how unauthorized shadow networks allow tampered chips to bypass sanctions and enter critical systems in countries like China and Russia, proposing solutions including blockchain verification systems and international cooperation.

Mehak Farooq · Mehjabin Majid (Advisor)

Stabilized Biofilm Analogues as Sustainable Corrosion-Resistant Coatings

This experimental study tests whether biofilm-inspired polymer coatings can protect steel from corrosion, exposing coated and uncoated coupons to saltwater, vinegar, oil-brine, and air for four weeks, finding that coated samples lost substantially less mass (for example, 0.12g versus 0.37g in saltwater), suggesting biofilm coatings offer a sustainable alternative to conventional anticorrosion treatments.

Rianna Chaudhuri · Alexandra Kanterezhi-Gatto

The Compass to Curing Cancer

Cancer remains the leading global cause of death, and conventional treatments often fall short. This study examines how genetic profiling and immunotherapy can improve cure rates. Reviewing 2017–2025 data, it highlights challenges like toxicity, the tumour microenvironment, and drug delivery, while showing how personalized targeting brings us closer to truly curative therapies.

Naveshi Mogillapally

Tracking Depression in the Digital Age: A PHQ-9 Analysis of Social Media’s Neuropsychological Impact on Adolescents

Teen depression has sharply increased, nearly doubling during the pandemic. This study examines whether spending over three hours daily on social media worsens symptoms in adolescents with Major Depressive Disorder. Using clinical records, behaviour tracking, journals, and brain imaging, findings show heightened stress response, reduced dopamine sensitivity, disrupted brain regulation, and intensified negative thinking.

Nour Elsayed Ahmed Elsayed Ahmed Akl · Mehjabin Majid (Advisor)

Sindh (Pakistan) Vs. New Jersey (United States): Nutrient Influence on Barnacle Populations and Pharmaceutical Efficiency

This research examined whether local marine life could support developing medicine to boost employment and the economy. Acorn barnacles were studied by comparing soil pH, nitrogen, and phosphorus in Sindh and New Jersey. New Jersey’s higher levels and better air quality suggest healthier barnacles, making them more viable for antibiotic development

Ashna Kashif · Alexandra Kanterezhi-Gatto (Advisor)

How can perfectly designed autonomous and remotely operated satellites in low-Earth orbit support environmental monitoring in countries with limited space infrastructure?

Ahmed Abbasi