Jeddah, Saudi Arabia – The Third International Nuclear Science Olympiad, which concluded on August 13, 2026, saw Saudi Arabia secure top honors, with Amjad Mahmoud Issa Al-Darwish named the overall winner and Nuclear Science Olympiad Ambassador. The event, hosted in Jeddah, brought together young scientists from 19 nations to test their knowledge and skills in nuclear science.
Al-Darwish's stellar performance earned him the prestigious first-place overall title, alongside a gold medal and the esteemed Nuclear Science Ambassador designation. His achievement underscores Saudi Arabia's growing prowess in scientific education and research on the international stage.
Adding to Saudi Arabia's success, Jana Saleh Abdullah Al Subeil was also a prominent winner. She received a gold medal and was recognized with two significant accolades: the Women in Nuclear IAEA Special Award for Best Female Olympian and the Best Female Student award. These honors highlight her exceptional talent and contribution to the field, promoting the role of women in science.
The host nation, Saudi Arabia, topped the medal table at the Olympiad. Other notable Saudi medalists included Abdulaziz Abdulmohsen Al Shurayt, who earned a silver medal, and Saleh Mubarak Dhaifallah Al-Harbi, who secured a bronze medal, further cementing the country's strong performance across various categories.
Beyond Saudi Arabia's dominance, the Olympiad also marked a successful debut for China, which secured one gold and three silver medals. The competition provided a platform for international collaboration and knowledge exchange among the next generation of nuclear scientists.
In a separate but related event, the International Artificial Intelligence Olympiad, held in Astana, Kazakhstan, on August 8, 2026, saw the Polish team achieve a commendable third place overall. The Polish contingent demonstrated significant skill, securing four gold medals and four silver medals in the global contest, showcasing their rising talent in artificial intelligence.