KAUST Mathematics Competition concludes with the honoring of 241 gifted students
King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST) concluded the final round of the KAUST Mathematics Competition (KMC), organized by the KAUST Academy in collaboration with the National Network for STEM Talents and in strategic partnership with the Ministry of Education. This edition witnessed wide participation, with more than 7,640 students representing 13 educational districts and 59 nationalities from across the Kingdom. This pioneering national initiative aims to discover and develop mathematical talent among students at early stages of their education, paving the way for building a promising generation of scientists and thinkers.
A leading role in supporting science and innovation
Since its inception, King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST) has been committed to advancing scientific research and innovation in Saudi Arabia and the region. Educational initiatives aimed at young people are a natural extension of the university's vision and its long history of supporting academic excellence. In this context, scientific competitions stand out as an effective tool for stimulating young minds. These efforts are closely aligned with the Human Capital Development Program, a key component of Saudi Vision 2030, which aims to cultivate globally competitive citizens by enhancing essential knowledge and skills, particularly in science and mathematics, thus contributing to the transition to a knowledge-based economy.
Details of the final round of the KAUST Mathematics Competition
witnessed the KAUST Mathematics Competitionfierce competition among 241 students from grades 8 to 11. These elite students qualified after passing through multiple elimination rounds held in several cities across the Kingdom. Participants underwent advanced and comprehensive scientific tests in algebra, geometry, combinatorics, and number theory. These tests demonstrated a high level of analytical thinking, exceptional mathematical abilities, and complex problem-solving skills among the participating students.
Honoring the winners and top performers
During the closing ceremony, students who won gold, silver and bronze medals in the junior and youth categories were honored in recognition of their academic excellence and advanced performance at the national level.
The following individuals achieved advanced positions in the junior category (gold medals): Faisal Mohammed Al-Bariqi, Hassan Jihad Al-Rijal, Jawad Ahmed Al-Nasser, Mohammed Salem Al-Salmi, Ahmed Raed Al-Thubaiti, On Mohammed Sajjad, Habib Luqman Hakim, Fares Mohammed Al-Kanhal, Hussein Abdullah Al-Omran, Muammal Siraj Al-Sihaiti, Emad Mohammed Al-Maliki, and Abdulrahman Ahmed Noursaid.
In the youth category (gold medals), the following also won: Rayan Abdulkarim, Karim Ali Hassan Al-Hussein, Tala Faisal Talba, Mohammed Nasser Al-Ali, Abdulrahman Shawqi Mansour, Yasser Mohammed Habibullah, Mohammed Ali Shaiban, Abdullah Tariq Al-Amer, Abdul-Ilah Mohammed Al-Saqqaf, and Bilal Nafeh Al-Hujaili.
The following students received awards for excellence for the highest grades in each grade: Mohammed Salem Baghatia (first in the eighth grade), Emad Mohammed Al-Maliki (first in the ninth grade), Abdul-Ilah Mohammed Al-Saqqaf (first in the tenth grade), and Mohammed Ali Shaiban (first in the eleventh grade).
Strategic impact and talent development for global competitions
Dr. Sultan Al-Barakati, Associate Vice President for Saudi Talent Development at KAUST, explained that this competition is one of the high-quality initiatives that contribute to discovering promising scientific talent. The expected impact of this event is not limited to the local level, but extends to the regional and international levels by preparing students to compete in global scientific forums.
A select group of faculty members and researchers from the university participated in preparing the competition questions according to rigorous scientific standards. In addition, supplementary enrichment programs were implemented, including workshops and applied scientific sessions, which allowed students to become familiar with modern research environments.
The competition also provided exceptional opportunities to enroll in advanced academic programs, including qualifying to participate in the International Mathematical Olympiad preparation programs for 2028, and completing specialized training programs that include participation in the prestigious Cambridge University Summer Math Camp, which enhances the Kingdom’s global competitiveness and consolidates its position as an incubator for innovation and talent.
