International Nuclear Science Olympiad 2026 concludes in Jeddah with 19 countries participating

The third edition of the International Nuclear Science Olympiad (INSO 2026) concluded today in Jeddah, with Saudi Arabia hosting the event from August 2 to 9. The competition brought together 120 students and scientific specialists 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 King Abdullah City for Atomic and Renewable Energy, and was hosted by King Abdulaziz University—the first time the event has been held in the Middle East.

In her closing remarks, Dr. Maya Al-Azri, President of the International Nuclear Science Olympiad (INSO 2026), expressed her appreciation to Saudi Arabia for hosting the Olympiad. She praised the high level of organization and the collaboration between government agencies, academic institutions, organizing committees, and volunteers, which ensured the competitions were held to 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 and Saudi Arabia's hosting of the competitions and accompanying events. This was followed by the announcement of results and the awarding of medals and special prizes to the winners.

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

Saudi Arabia topped the results of the third edition of the International Nuclear Science Olympiad (INSO 2026), taking first place and earning the title "Nuclear Science Ambassador." Saudi student Amjad Mahmoud Issa Al-Darwish won 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 among all participants.

Student Jana Saleh Abdullah Al-Subail won a gold medal and was awarded the "Best Female Student" prize by the International Atomic Energy Agency. Student Abdulaziz Abdulmohsen Al-Shuraite won the silver medal, while Saleh Mubarak Dhaifallah Al-Harbi earned the bronze. In total, the Olympiad awarded 8 gold, 13 silver, and 18 bronze medals, in addition to several special prizes.

The accompanying program included a variety 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 science, promote awareness of the safe and peaceful uses of nuclear technologies, encourage youth to specialize in this field, and inspire them to use science and innovation to create solutions that contribute to sustainable development.