Saudi Arabia wins bronze medal at the 2025 International Junior Science Olympiad
In a new national achievement reflecting the development of the Kingdom's educational system, Saudi Arabia continued its strong and influential presence in international scientific forums. The Saudi science team added another medal to the nation's record of accomplishments, following the bronze medal won by the talented student, Layan Fahd Abu Al-Naja, from the Eastern Province Education Department, at the 22nd International Junior Science Olympiad (IJSO 2025).
This well-deserved crowning came at the conclusion of the competitions hosted by the Russian city of Sochi, which took place from November 23 to December 2. This edition witnessed a highly competitive atmosphere, as a select group of emerging minds from around the world gathered to compete for prestigious scientific titles.
Global competition and rigorous testing
The road to the podium was not easy, as this year's Olympiad witnessed fierce competition among 122 students representing 24 countries from around the world. The participants underwent a series of intensive and complex tests covering the three fundamental sciences: physics, chemistry, and biology. These tests demanded advanced analytical skills and a remarkable ability to connect different scientific concepts and solve scientific problems under time pressure, skills in which the Saudi student demonstrated her competence and excellence, representing her country admirably before the international judging panels.
A strategic partnership and a history full of achievements
This ninth participation of the Kingdom in this international event is a result of the successful and ongoing strategic partnership between the King Abdulaziz and His Companions Foundation for Giftedness and Creativity (Mawhiba) and the Ministry of Education. This partnership aims to discover, nurture, and develop gifted Saudi students through intensive training programs that meet the highest international standards. With this new achievement, the Kingdom's historical tally in the International Junior Science Olympiad has risen to 32 medals, including one gold, six silver, and 25 bronze medals, reflecting the sustained excellence of Saudi students and their year-on-year improvement compared to their international peers.
The importance of the Olympiad and the future of science
The International Junior Science Olympiad (IJSO), first held in Indonesia in 2004, is one of the world's most prestigious science competitions for students under 16. Its significance lies in its role as a vital platform for fostering interest in the natural sciences and enhancing scientific, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills in young people. Investing in this age group is fundamental to building a generation of scientists and researchers capable of contributing to the scientific and technological advancement of humanity.
Reflecting the Kingdom's Vision 2030
This achievement carries profound implications that extend far beyond simply winning a medal. It serves as a true indicator of the success of the Kingdom's Vision 2030 objectives, particularly the Human Capital Development Program, which aims to cultivate a globally competitive citizenry. Investing in young minds and providing an environment conducive to creativity and innovation is clearly bearing fruit, as Saudi students consistently demonstrate their ability to stand shoulder to shoulder with their peers from scientifically advanced nations. This excellence reinforces the Kingdom's position as a leading nation in nurturing talent and supports its drive to build a sustainable knowledge-based economy founded on innovation and scientific research.
