Saudi Arabia Tops International Nuclear Science Olympiad as Students Win Four Medals

JEDDAH: Saudi Arabia has secured first place overall at the third International Nuclear Science Olympiad 2026, with its students winning four medals — two gold, one silver and one bronze.

According to Saudi Gazette, Saudi student Amjad Mahmoud Issa Al-Darwish won a gold medal after achieving the highest combined score in both the theoretical and practical examinations. He was also awarded the title of “Nuclear Science Ambassador.”

Saudi student Jana Saleh Al-Subail also won a gold medal and received the “Best Female Student” award. The special award, approved by the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), aims to recognize the scientific capabilities of female students in nuclear science and encourage their participation in the field.

During the Olympiad, Jana Al-Subail and other participants took part in two examinations — theoretical and practical. Each examination lasted five hours and assessed students’ knowledge of nuclear science, scientific analysis, experimental skills, interpretation of results and ability to solve complex problems.

Saudi student Abdulaziz Abdulmohsen Al-Shurait won a silver medal, while Saleh Mubarak Dhaifallah Al-Harbi secured a bronze medal.

The third International Nuclear Science Olympiad was held in Jeddah from August 2 to 9, bringing together 120 students and scientific experts from 19 countries.

The Olympiad was organized jointly by the Saudi 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. King Abdulaziz University hosted the competitions and related activities.

The International Nuclear Science Olympiad received approval from the International Atomic Energy Agency in 2024. The global competition is designed for secondary school students and aims to develop their knowledge and practical skills in nuclear science and its peaceful applications, while encouraging scientific research, innovation and greater interest among young people in the field.