Pakistani Students Shine at International Nuclear Science Olympiad in Malaysia

A Triumph for Pakistan’s Young Scientists

Pakistani students have once again demonstrated their remarkable scientific talent on the global stage, securing four medals at the 2nd International Nuclear Science Olympiad (INSO-2025) held in Malaysia. This accomplishment marks a significant milestone for Pakistan’s scientific community and highlights the growing potential of the nation’s youth in the field of nuclear science.

Medal Tally: Celebrating Excellence

The Pakistani contingent put forward an outstanding performance, returning home with a total of four medals: one Gold, one Silver, and two Bronze. Muhammad Tayyab Bukhari from Abbottabad led the team’s medal haul by clinching the prestigious Gold Medal. Ammar Asad Warraich from Islamabad secured the Silver Medal, while Rawah Javed (Islamabad) and Tatheer Aima Naqvi (Jhang) were awarded Bronze Medals for their impressive efforts.

This achievement is not just a testament to the individual brilliance of these students, but also a reflection of the rigorous training and academic excellence imparted by their institutions. Their success serves as an inspiration for countless other young Pakistanis aspiring to excel in the fields of science and technology.

The Global Stage: INSO-2025 Overview

The International Nuclear Science Olympiad (INSO-2025) took place from July 30 to August 5 in Malaysia and was organized under the auspices of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA). The event featured participants from 19 different countries, including some of the world’s leading scientific nations such as China, Japan, Singapore, Malaysia, Indonesia, Türkiye, Thailand, Sri Lanka, Saudi Arabia, and Qatar.

The competition provided a platform for young minds to showcase their grasp of nuclear science concepts, problem-solving abilities, and research potential. Engaging with their peers from across the region and beyond, Pakistani students demonstrated not only technical prowess but also a commitment to excellence.

Guiding Lights: Mentorship Behind the Success

Behind every successful team stands a dedicated group of mentors. The Pakistani students were guided by Dr. Sajjad Tahir of the Pakistan Institute of Engineering and Applied Sciences (PIEAS) and Dr. Muhammad Maqsood from the Directorate of Education, Pakistan Atomic Energy Commission (PAEC). Their mentorship played a crucial role in nurturing the talent, confidence, and analytical skills of these young scientists.

Institutions like PIEAS and PAEC have long been at the forefront of scientific education and research in Pakistan, focusing on fostering young talent and preparing them for international challenges. Their continued support ensures that the pipeline of future scientists and innovators remains strong.

Pakistan’s Growing Presence in International Science Forums

This latest success at INSO-2025 is part of a broader trend of Pakistani students excelling in international scientific Olympiads. Just recently, Pakistan celebrated its first-ever Gold medal at the International Biology Olympiad (IBO) held in the Philippines, where Abdul Raffay Paracha displayed exceptional performance among global participants. These achievements underscore Pakistan’s increasing visibility and competitiveness in global scientific forums.

The Pakistani delegation at the IBO was supported by the STEM Careers Programme, a collaborative effort by the Higher Education Commission (HEC) and PIEAS, further demonstrating the institutional commitment to developing world-class scientific talent.

Promoting Peaceful Uses of Nuclear Science

The participation and success of Pakistani students in such events not only reflect individual and institutional dedication but also highlight Pakistan’s broader commitment to the peaceful use of nuclear science. The country continues to invest in training and education to harness nuclear technology for beneficial applications in education, agriculture, medicine, and industry.

By nurturing future generations of scientists, Pakistan is paving the way for innovative solutions to national and global challenges while promoting peaceful scientific cooperation on the world stage.