Syrian Students Honored After Success at International Nuclear Olympiad
The Syrian Atomic Energy Commission and the Commission for Excellence and Creativity held a joint ceremony this week to celebrate the achievements of the Syrian National Team for Nuclear Science. The team of students, who are members of the National Center for Distinguished Students, were formally recognized for their successful performance in the 2026 International Nuclear Olympiad (INSO).
The event, which brought together participants from 19 nations, served as a global stage for testing academic rigor in nuclear physics and technology. The Syrian team distinguished themselves among international peers, securing one silver medal and two bronze medals. The accolades were awarded during a recognition ceremony held at the headquarters of both the Atomic Energy Commission and the Commission for Excellence and Creativity in Damascus.
Among the students honored for their high-level performance in both theoretical and practical assessments were Karam Halloum, who took home the silver medal, and Bashar Nashed and Alaa Saud, who were awarded bronze medals. Student Mohammed Hali was also recognized for his contributions to the team’s competitive success.
In addition to the students, the ceremony paid tribute to the scientists and experts from the Syrian Atomic Energy Commission who oversaw the team’s preparations. These supervisors guided the students through an intensive training program designed to mirror the challenges of the international competition. The curriculum covered a range of critical topics, including nuclear physics, radiation protection, and the peaceful applications of radiation. The training was complemented by extensive laboratory work, where students practiced nuclear measurements and experiments to refine their analytical skills.
The leadership of both the Atomic Energy Commission and the Commission for Excellence and Creativity emphasized that this achievement is a significant milestone in Syria’s scientific narrative. Officials stated that the results reflect the country’s growing engagement in global intellectual forums and demonstrate the efficacy of the national strategy to foster talent among youth. Dr. Shadi Al-Azma, head of the Commission for Excellence and Creativity, and the director of the Syrian Science Olympiad, Dania Qabbani, were present to personally congratulate the students and the members of the nuclear science committee.
This success is the result of a collaborative framework between the Atomic Energy Commission and the Commission for Excellence and Creativity, established to identify and mentor distinguished students for international competition. The International Nuclear Olympiad, which was formally introduced by the International Atomic Energy Agency in 2024, is designed to encourage the safe and peaceful use of nuclear technology. By participating in this platform, Syrian students are contributing to the broader goal of fostering innovation and developing practical solutions for the future of the nuclear field.
