The nine-day event, hosted by Isfahan University of Technology, marks the second time Isfahan has welcomed the IPhO, the first being in 2007, IRNA wrote.
“Iran is a suitable choice to host the International Physics Olympiad,” said Professor Rajdeep Singh Rawat, the president of the International Physics Olympiad. “Despite a decrease in the number of participating countries compared to the previous edition, Iran’s readiness to host the event remains
unchanged.”
A total of 198 students are participating in the scientific competition, accompanied by 150 chaperones and team leaders. The competing teams represent Iran, Russia, China, Cuba, Saudi Arabia, Taiwan, Romania, Turkey, Mexico, Georgia, Bulgaria, Indonesia, Kyrgyzstan, Croatia, Colombia, Belarus, Kuwait, and Vietnam.
Oman and Morocco are also in attendance as observers, seeking to familiarize themselves with the international competition.
The IPhO, first held in Poland in 1967, has grown in size and popularity over the years. The event hit a brief hiatus between 1967 and 1982 due to increasing participation numbers, but since then, it has been held annually without fail, except in 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Iran joined the IPhO 36 years ago and has since seen its students claim numerous medals. This year, five Iranian students are among the competitors, aiming to continue their country’s scientific legacy.
The Olympiad provides a platform for young scientists to showcase their talents and connect with peers from diverse backgrounds. It also fosters collaboration among university faculty members and promotes the exchange of ideas and cultural understanding.
The competition is expected to conclude with a closing ceremony on Sunday, where medals and awards will be presented to the top performers.