Saudi Team Triumphs at ISEF with 27 Awards in Science and Engineering
The Saudi Science and Engineering Team delivered a stellar performance at the Regeneron International Science and Engineering Fair (ISEF), bagging 27 awards, a feat that places them amongst the top contenders at this prestigious competition in which over 1,700 students from more than 70 countries took part between May 11 and 17.
The King Abdulaziz and His Companions Foundation for Giftedness and Creativity (Mawhiba) announced the team's success. The awards, which include 18 grand prizes and nine prestigious special awards, are testimony to young Saudi scientists' talent, according to Mawhiba press release.
Mawhiba Secretary-General Dr. Amal bint Abdullah Al-Hazza attributed this achievemnt to the unwavering support the Saudi leadership gives talent, science, and innovation.
She highlighted the fruitful collaboration between Mawhiba and the Ministry of Education, alongside the crucial role played by other Saudi entities in nurturing exceptional abilities of the Kingdom's students. This collaborative effort ensures a strong Saudi presence on international platforms, she said.
This record-breaking achievement, Al-Hazza added, reflects the Kingdom's commitment to realizing the goals of Vision 2030. In particular, it aligns with the vision of building a dynamic society and a thriving economy fueled by human potential and cutting-edge innovation.
"Mawhiba takes immense pride in continuously nurturing and empowering our students," Al-Hazza stated.
"Our efforts are aimed not only at excelling in international competitions, but also at making these young minds ambassadors of science and creativity, representing the Kingdom at the highest levels," she added.
The press release also detailed the individual achievements: Hamad Al-Husseini and Abeer Al-Yousef secured second place in the energy and chemistry categories, respectively, while other students secured third-place honors: Elias Khan (biomedicine and health sciences), Suleiman Al-Misnad and Latifa Al-Ghannam (energy), Turki Al-Dalami (environmental engineering), Tahani Ahmed (materials science), and Laila Zawawi (translational medical sciences).
Fourth-place were claimed by a number of students: Nasser Al-Suwayan (biomedical engineering), Lana Al-Mazrouei (cellular and molecular biology), Yara Al-Qadi and Yara Al-Bakri (earth and environmental sciences), Shahad Al-Mutlaq (energy), Asma Al-Qusair (environmental engineering), Areej Al-Qarni and Lana Al-Fuhaid (materials science), and Layan Al-Maliki and Tamara Radhi (plant sciences).
With this latest feat, Saudi Arabia's total count of awards has received at ISEF since its initial participation in 2007 has reached a remarkable 160, of which 110 grand prizes and 50 special awards.
This sustained excellence underscores the Kingdom's dedication to fostering a generation of young scientists and innovators who are well-equipped to lead the nation toward a brighter future, according to the release.
