World success for student from Croatia in space competition

Aron Halasz, a Year 5 pupil from Zvonko Cara Primary School in the Croatian coastal town of Crikvenica, has achieved remarkable international success by winning first place in his age category at the “My Space Dream” art competition.

The global contest, organised by the Chinese Society of Astronautics (CSA) in collaboration with the Adriatic Aerospace Association (A3) and the Australian Space Industry Association, encourages primary and secondary school students to explore and express their visions of space through art.

Now in its thirteenth year, the competition has gained global recognition, with its exhibitions attracting nearly one million visitors to date.

Aron Halasz (Photo: Supplied)

Aron’s winning artwork stood out among entries from around the world, earning him a coveted invitation to attend the Chinese Space Conference and the official award ceremony in Shanghai, taking place from 22 to 26 April.

His art teacher and mentor, Mrs Alison Mavrić, expressed her pride in his accomplishment, saying, “It is a privilege to work with talented students like Aron. His success on the world stage is a strong reminder of the importance of nurturing creativity in children.”

(Photo: Supplied)

Zvonko Cara Primary School’s headteacher, Professor of Pedagogy Mrs Desiree Pečaver, also praised both the student and his mentor:

“We are incredibly proud of Aron and Mrs Mavrić, whose dedication and enthusiasm for the arts continually inspire our pupils. Many have chosen to pursue artistic studies thanks to her guidance. We wish Aron a memorable and inspiring experience in Shanghai.”

Winning artworks, including Aron’s, will be featured in the “My Space Dream” exhibition marking China’s Space Day in 2025, and may also appear in an exhibition organised by the United Nations Office for Outer Space Affairs (UNOOSA). Selected entries, including shortlisted works, will also be showcased in an exhibition in Zagreb in early June.

The Chinese Space Conference in Shanghai will also host key representatives from the Adriatic Aerospace Association. Professor Dr Slobodan Bosanac, President of the Association, and Secretary General Mr Danko Kočiš will both attend the opening ceremony and plenary session.

Professor Dr Slobodan Bosanac (Photo: Supplied)

They will also speak at the Forum for the Popularisation of Space Innovation at Shanghai Jiao Tong University, delivering lectures on “The Role of the Adriatic Aerospace Association in Promoting Space Collaboration” and “Space Education Programmes in the Republic of Croatia.”

As part of the event’s official programme, the CSA has arranged for Croatian participants to visit the Shanghai Planetarium, tour the city’s key landmarks, attend a Space Night celebration, and enjoy a gala dinner cruise hosted by the China National Space Administration.

Danko Kočiš (Photo: Supplied)

Aron Halasz’s achievement not only highlights individual artistic talent but also showcases the value of international cooperation in education and the arts.

His success serves as a proud moment for Crikvenica and a source of inspiration for young creatives across Croatia.