Singapore’s young talents have once again proven their mettle on the international stage, clinching top positions at the International Chemistry Olympiad (IChO) and the International Biology Olympiad (IBO). The Republic’s students also secured a commendable second place at the International Geography Olympiad.
A Historic Win in Chemistry
Singapore’s team, consisting of three students from NUS High School of Mathematics and Science – Leemen Chan Chee Yong (17), Lee I-Shiang (18), and Panshul Sharma (18) – and Marcus Chu Jian-Hao (18) from Raffles Institution (RI), achieved joint first place with China at the IChO held in Zurich, Switzerland. This marks Singapore’s best performance since its debut in the competition in 1988. Competing against 348 participants from 89 countries, the team secured four gold medals. The rigorous competition tested students on experimental and theoretical aspects, including molecular imaging and artificial photosynthesis.
Triumphant Return in Biology
At the International Biology Olympiad held in Al Ain, United Arab Emirates, Singapore emerged as champions for the first time since 2016. The team, comprising Debraath Pahari and Lim Le Xuan from NUS High School of Mathematics and Science, and Jerome Lai Le Hao and Lionel Soh Sze Hian from RI, all aged 18, outshone 293 participants from 76 countries to bring home four gold medals. The competition covered a wide range of topics, from ecology to genetics and evolution.
Other Notable Achievements
Singapore’s prowess in the sciences was further demonstrated with a championship win at the Online Young Physicists’ Tournament. Additionally, the Republic secured second place at the 19th International Geography Olympiad. Singaporean students also participated in informatics, physics, and mathematical Olympiads, amassing a total of 14 gold, 12 silver, two bronze medals, and an honourable mention across the various competitions.
Celebrating the Spirit of Perseverance
Education Minister Chan Chun Sing lauded the students’ achievements in a Facebook post, emphasizing the challenges and setbacks they faced along their scientific journey. He highlighted the importance of the students’ resilience and determination, stating, “More precious than our students’ medals is their can-try, can-do spirit.” Minister Chan also expressed his gratitude to the teachers and instructors for their unwavering support and dedication in preparing the students for these prestigious Olympiads.
Conclusion
Singapore’s outstanding performance at these international Olympiads is a testament to the hard work, dedication, and passion of its students and educators. As the nation celebrates these achievements, it also looks forward to nurturing future generations of scientists, researchers, and innovators.
Also learn about Singapore’s Education Revolution: Embracing EdTech and 21st Century Competencies.
