The Saudi Chemistry Team won four global awards at the 56th International Chemistry Olympiad (IChO) 2024, hosted in Riyadh from July 21st to 30th, with the participation of 333 students from 90 countries.

Hassan Al-Khalifa, for the General Directorate of Education Eastern Province, was awarded a silver medal, while bronze medals were won by Ali Al-Mousa, for the General Directorate of Education Eastern Province, Ahmed Azahari, for the General Directorate of Education in Jeddah, and Haider Al-Dubaissi for the General Directorate of Education Eastern Province.

With these achievements, Saudi Arabia's tally from its participation in the IChO now stands at 15 silver medals, 28 bronze medals, and two certificates of merit.

Dr. Amal Al-Hazzaa, Secretary General of King Abdulaziz, and his Companions Foundation for Giftedness and Creativity (Mawhiba) attributed this success to the wise leadership's unwavering support in advancing the Kingdom's Vision 2030. She highlighted the confidence in young talents to compete globally and build a generation capable of navigating scientific challenges and foreseeing the future.

She extended her heartfelt gratitude to His Excellency the Minister of Education, Mr. Yousef Al-Benyan, for his support of Mawhiba and its programs to identify, nurture, and empower gifted Saudi students in public schools. Dr. Al-Hazzaa underlined that this success is the result of a fruitful collaboration between Mawhiba and the Ministry of Education, which reflects well on the Kingdom's talent and creativity ecosystem.

The 2024 International Chemistry Olympiad was organized by Mawhiba in strategic partnership with the Ministry of Education and King Saud University, with exclusive sponsorship from the Saudi Basic Industries Corporation (SABIC).

During the Olympiad competition, students completed two major tests that were translated into over 50 languages: a practical laboratory exam and a theoretical written exam, both of which were held in a highly competitive setting. The event also included a diverse leisure program for students and supervisors, such as field trips to cultural and tourism locations that highlight Saudi culture.

Saudi Arabia hosted the Olympiad with the theme "Building Bonds Together," highlighting Saudi students' remarkable performance in the world arena and strengthening the Kingdom's status as a global leader in a variety of scientific disciplines.

It is worth noting that the International Chemistry Olympiad is the world's largest high school chemistry competition. Since 1968, it has been held yearly in a different country with the goal of improving worldwide communication in chemistry and inspiring students who are passionate about the topic via innovative problem-solving possibilities.