The first elite training camp to prepare "talent" for the 2026 International Olympics has begun
In a strategic move reflecting the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia's commitment to developing human capital and investing in young minds, the King Abdulaziz and His Companions Foundation for Giftedness and Creativity (Mawhiba) launched its first Elite Camp. This camp is the first in a series of intensive preparatory programs designed to qualify and train gifted students selected to represent the Kingdom in international and regional scientific competitions and Olympiads during 2026.
The camp is held in multiple locations including the capital, Riyadh, the city of Jeddah, as well as the country of Indonesia, reflecting the diversity of training environments to ensure the highest levels of scientific benefit and cultural and knowledge exchange.
A national strategy to build a generation of scientists
This camp is not merely a fleeting training event, but rather a fundamental component of an integrated system aimed at achieving the goals of the Kingdom's Vision 2030, specifically the Human Capital Development Program. Through these camps, Mawhiba seeks to build a solid foundation of scientists and future leaders in the exact scientific fields. The Kingdom participates annually in approximately 30 international and regional Olympiads, competing with more than 120 countries worldwide.
The elite camp gains its importance from being the pivotal station in the nomination process, through which the most efficient and distinguished elements are sorted and selected to raise the Kingdom’s flag in competitions that cover 10 vital scientific disciplines.
A world-class training environment
To ensure the quality of the program's outcomes, Mawhiba has assembled a top-tier training team. The camp includes 214 male and female students, supervised by 38 trainers comprised of leading local and international experts, supported by a team of 4 assistants and 10 supervisors. The training takes place across 22 classrooms equipped with the latest educational technology.
The camp's program spans 12 days, from January 9 to 23, 2026, and includes intensive theoretical and practical training in seven main scientific tracks:
- mathematics
- Physics
- Chemistry
- Neighborhoods
- the sciences
- Information technology
- Astronomy and space
Strategic partnerships and prime locations
The selection of training locations reflects the organization's commitment to providing a stimulating environment for creativity. King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST) in Jeddah, a leading global research university, hosts part of the training, allowing students to immerse themselves in an advanced research environment. The prestigious King Saud University in Riyadh, the King Khalid Royal Reserve, a Riyadh hotel, and an external training site in Indonesia also participate in hosting camp activities.
A proven track record of international achievements
This early and intensive preparation comes as a continuation of the Kingdom's distinguished record in scientific forums, where its sons and daughters have won 996 international awards in various Olympiads and scientific competitions. These achievements ranged from gold, silver, and bronze medals to certificates of appreciation and special awards, placing the Kingdom among the leading countries in the field of nurturing and discovering talented individuals.
The first elite camp aims to enhance this record of achievements by raising the competitive readiness of students and providing them with advanced skills that enable them to confidently and competently engage in global competitions.
