International Nuclear Science Olympiad concludes in Jeddah with 19 countries

The third edition of the International Nuclear Science Olympiad (INSO 2026) concluded today in Jeddah, after being hosted by Saudi Arabia from August 2 to 9. The event brought together 120 students and scientific experts from 19 countries under the theme "Brilliant Minds for a Promising Future."

The Olympiad was organized in partnership with the Ministry of Education, the King Abdulaziz and His Companions Foundation for Giftedness and Creativity (Mawhiba), and the King Abdullah City for Atomic and Renewable Energy, and was hosted by King Abdulaziz University. This marked the first time the Olympiad was held in the Middle East.

In her speech at the closing ceremony, Dr. Maya Al-Azri, President of the International Nuclear Science Olympiad (INSO 2026), expressed her appreciation to Saudi Arabia for hosting the event. She praised the high level of organization and cooperation among government agencies, academic institutions, organizing committees, and volunteers, which ensured the competitions met the highest international standards.

The closing ceremony, held at the King Faisal Conference Center at King Abdulaziz University, featured a video presentation highlighting the Olympiad’s journey since its inception, Saudi Arabia’s hosting of the competitions, and accompanying events. The ceremony concluded with the announcement of results and the awarding of medals and special prizes to the winners.

At the end of the ceremony, Saudi Arabia handed over the hosting of the next International Nuclear Science Olympiad in 2027 to the Islamic Republic of Pakistan.

Saudi Arabia topped the medal table at the third edition of the International Nuclear Science Olympiad (INSO 2026), winning first place and the title of "Nuclear Science Ambassador." Saudi student Amjad Mahmoud Issa Al-Darwish claimed first place and the gold medal, as well as the "Nuclear Science Ambassador" title, after achieving the highest combined score in both theoretical and practical exams.

Student Jana Saleh Abdullah Al-Subail won a gold medal and received the "Best Female Student" award, presented by the International Atomic Energy Agency. Abdulaziz Abdulmohsen Al-Shuraite won the silver medal, and Saleh Mubarak Dhaifallah Al-Harbi took bronze. In total, the Olympiad awarded eight gold medals, thirteen silver medals, and eighteen bronze medals, in addition to several special prizes.

The accompanying program included a range of cultural and educational activities and visits, allowing students, delegation leaders, and supervisors to learn about Saudi Arabia’s history and cultural heritage. A cultural night was also organized, introducing participants to the diversity of Saudi culture and traditions.

The International Nuclear Science Olympiad, established by the International Atomic Energy Agency in 2024, is a global scientific platform for high school students. It aims to develop their knowledge and skills in nuclear sciences, promote awareness of the safe and peaceful uses of nuclear technologies, encourage young people to specialize in this field, and inspire them to use science and innovation to create solutions that contribute to sustainable development.