The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia is on the cusp of presenting the 56th International Chemistry Olympiad (IChO), a distinguished global competition, scheduled to occur in Riyadh from July 21 to July 30. This grand event will draw in more than 340 youthful scholars and over 400 academic professionals and educators in the field of chemistry from 90 nations around the world.
In a collaborative effort, the Ministry of Education, the King Abdulaziz and His Companions Foundation for Giftedness and Creativity (Mawhiba), and King Saud University are organizing the event, with the Saudi Basic Industries Corporation (SABIC) providing exclusive sponsorship. The intellectual contests are set to unfold within the premises of King Saud University.
The IChO stands as a leading international scientific contest that caters to high school students with a knack for chemistry. It aims to ignite a passion for chemistry by challenging students with innovative and independent problem-solving, enhancing global dialogue in the chemistry sector, building international friendships among young science aficionados, encouraging cooperative learning, and facilitating the exchange of pedagogical and scientific knowledge within the chemistry community.
Dr. Amal bint Abdullah Al-Hazzaa, the Secretary-General of Mawhiba and Chair of the Supervisory Committee for the Olympiad, emphasized that the act of hosting the Olympiad reflects the profound support and focus that the leadership dedicates to nurturing talent, scientific pursuit, and innovation. She further remarked that the event is indicative of the Kingdom’s determination to bolster its regional and international presence, and to cultivate citizens who can compete on a global scale, aligning with the aspirations of Saudi Vision 2030.
Dr. Al-Hazzaa elaborated on the extensive preparations undertaken by Mawhiba to host this significant scientific gathering, which includes bolstering partnerships for exceptional hosting reflective of the Kingdom’s status and equipping Saudi students for a competitive showing to attain new national achievements.
Visiting members of the IChO International Steering Committee have lauded the advanced level of readiness and the comprehensive preparatory work showcased by Riyadh for this eagerly awaited scientific gathering, marking the first occasion the Kingdom has hosted since its initial participation in the Olympiad. Their commendations were expressed in a meeting with the Minister of Education, Yousef bin Abdullah Al-Benyan, who had previously initiated the promotional campaign for the IChO, and where Mawhiba’s secretary-general and committee members were also in attendance.