Hoosier students are taking part in the fifth annual 4-h National Youth Science Day. (October 10th)

The event seeks to spark an early youth interest in science and future science careers.

Participants in the 'Eco-Bot challenge' must program a robot to clean up a simulated environmental spill in their community using a toothbrush.

Through the One Million New Scientists, One Million New Ideas campaign, 4 H has undertaken a bold goal of engaging one million additional young people in science, engineering and technology programming by 2013.

"Our nation is falling behind other countries in the fields of science, technology, engineering and math," said Donald T. Floyd, Jr., president and CEO of National 4-H Council. "However, participation in high-quality positive youth development programs like 4-H NYSD offers youth and adults the opportunity to engage in scientific exploration and work together to build the next generation of our nation's scientists, engineers and mathematicians."

There will be at least 50 sites around Indiana taking part in the challenge.

To find a 4-H youth development program, go to www.4-H.org