Dhahran: Some 240 male and female students from 30 countries yesterday sat for the first exam of the 25th Asian Physics Olympiad, held at King Fahd University of Petroleum and Minerals (KFUPM) in Dhahran. The test was translated into the languages of the participating countries under the supervision of 110 international specialists.

According to Saudi Press Agency, the olympiad includes two five-hour tests, theoretical and practical. These are prepared and evaluated by stringent scientific criteria, and students are expected to perform in a competitive environment. Participants are nominated based on their cumulative scores in theoretical and practical training programs, progressing through several levels. The final level involves intensive training and qualifying tests to select the national team.

Saudi Arabia is hosting this major scientific event from May 4 to 12, a collaboration between the Ministry of Education, the King Abdulaziz and His Companions Foundation for Giftedness and Creativity (Mawhiba), and KFUPM. Held for the first time in the Middle East, the event demonstrates the Kingdom’s commitment to supporting and empowering youth and fostering scientific talent. It further underscores its dedication to investing in young minds and its growing prominence as an international hub for scientific fields.