Pakistan has achieved another significant milestone in international science by winning three bronze medals at the 56th International Physics Olympiad (IPhO), held in Bucaramanga, Colombia, where more than 400 students from over 90 countries competed in one of the world’s most prestigious physics competitions.
The achievement highlights the growing potential of Pakistani students in science and technology and reflects the country’s continued progress in international academic competitions.
Three students secure bronze medals
The Pakistani team earned bronze medals through the outstanding performances of:
- Zulfiqar Ali from Government City Boys School, Dera Ghazi Khan
- Ali Hamdan Alvi from FG Sir Syed College, Rawalpindi
- Daniyal Shahzad Hamid from The Science School, Rawat, Islamabad
In addition to the medal winners, Hazza Mahmood of Aitchison College, Lahore, and Abdullah Ejaz of Siddeeq Public School, Rawalpindi, received Honourable Mentions in recognition of their commendable performances.
Prestigious global science competition
The International Physics Olympiad (IPhO) is regarded as one of the world’s leading science competitions for high school students. The annual event tests participants through challenging theoretical and experimental examinations designed to assess advanced knowledge of physics, analytical thinking, and problem-solving skills.
This year’s edition attracted more than 400 talented students representing over 90 countries, offering young scientists an opportunity to compete on an international stage and exchange academic experiences.
Rigorous selection and specialised training
The students were selected through the 22nd National Science Talent Contest (NSTC), organised under the STEM Careers Programme, a joint initiative of the Higher Education Commission (HEC) and the Pakistan Institute of Engineering and Applied Sciences (PIEAS).
Following a highly competitive nationwide selection process, the successful students participated in a series of intensive residential training camps at the PIEAS campus. During these camps, they received advanced theoretical instruction and practical laboratory training from experienced national and international instructors to prepare them for the demanding Olympiad examinations.
The Pakistani delegation was led by Professor Dr Muhammad Irfan and Dr Muhammad Waseem of PIEAS.
Pakistan’s growing success in Science Olympiads
Pakistan has regularly participated in major international science competitions for more than two decades. The country has been competing in the International Physics Olympiad since 2001, the International Mathematical Olympiad since 2005, and the International Biology and Chemistry Olympiads since 2006.
According to official figures, since the launch of the STEM Careers Programme, more than 365 Pakistani students have represented the country in various International Science Olympiads, winning a total of 144 medals. Additionally, over 5,000 students have benefited from more than 256 advanced training camps, helping develop a strong pipeline of young scientists capable of competing at the global level.
The latest success at the International Physics Olympiad further reinforces Pakistan’s growing presence in international scientific competitions and showcases the talent and dedication of its young students.
