Saudi Arabia’s science and engineering team made a strong showing at the Regeneron International Science and Engineering Fair (ISEF) 2024, earning a total of 27 awards, including 18 grand prizes and 9 special awards. The event, which took place from May 10 to 17, featured over 1,700 students from more than 70 countries. The King Abdulaziz and his Companions Foundation for Giftedness and Creativity (Mawhiba) highlighted the Kingdom’s success in securing two second-place awards, six third-place awards, and ten fourth-place awards in various scientific fields.
Dr. Amal Al-Hazza, Secretary-General of Mawhiba, expressed pride in the continuous support provided by the Saudi leadership to the fields of science, talent, and innovation. She emphasized the fruitful cooperation and strategic partnership between Mawhiba and the Ministry of Education, which have enabled Saudi students to excel and represent their country on international stages. Winning 27 awards at ISEF 2024 is seen as a clear sign of the commitment to achieving the objectives of Saudi Vision 2030, which aims to build a vibrant society and a thriving economy through enhancing human capabilities and innovation.
Dr. Al-Hazza noted the importance of nurturing and empowering students, providing them with necessary support to excel in international competitions and serve as ambassadors of science and creativity at the highest levels. Among the notable achievers were Hamad Al-Husseini, who won second place in the Energy category, and Abeer Al-Yousef, who secured a second-place finish in Chemistry. Third-place honors were claimed by Elias Khan in Biomedical and Health Sciences, and other students excelled in a variety of fields, including Energy, Environmental Engineering, Material Science, and Translational Medical Science.
With these results, Saudi Arabia’s total tally of special awards at ISEF 2024 rises to 160, including 110 grand prizes and 50 special awards, marking a significant presence since their first participation in 2007. The achievements at the international competition demonstrate the Kingdom’s commitment to nurturing talent and fostering innovation among its youth. The success of the Saudi science and engineering team highlights the dedication and hard work of both students and educators in pursuing excellence in scientific research and development.
The Kingdom’s participation in international science fairs like ISEF not only showcases the talent and potential of Saudi students but also contributes to the overall development of the country’s scientific community. By investing in education and supporting young innovators, Saudi Arabia is paving the way for a brighter future driven by technological advancement and scientific discovery. The collaboration between Mawhiba and the Ministry of Education plays a crucial role in providing students with the resources and opportunities needed to succeed on a global scale.
Moving forward, Saudi Arabia remains committed to fostering a culture of innovation and creativity among its youth, in line with the goals of Saudi Vision 2030. By encouraging students to pursue their interests in science and engineering, the Kingdom is investing in the next generation of leaders who will drive advancements in various scientific fields. The success of Saudi students at international competitions like ISEF serves as a testament to their hard work, dedication, and potential to make significant contributions to the global scientific community.
