Vietnam's young mathematicians have showcased their prowess at the 2024 International Mathematics Olympiad (IMO) held in the United Kingdom, securing a commendable haul of five medals, although slipping in the overall rankings compared to the previous year.

The Ministry of Education and Training revealed that all six participants from Vietnam received medals and certificates of merit at this prestigious global competition. The team's effort resulted in 2 Silver and 3 Bronze medals, along with 1 certificate of merit, placing Vietnam 33rd among the nations and territories competing—a notable drop of 27 places from last year’s standing.

The silver medalists from the team were Tran Duy, a 12th grader from Hanoi Teacher Training University’s High School for the Gifted, and Tran Minh Hoang, an 11th grader from Ha Tinh High School for the Gifted. The bronze medals were claimed by Pham Tran Minh Duc from Tran Phu High School for the Gifted in Hai Phong, Nguyen Dang Dung from the High School for Gifted Students at Hanoi University of Science, and Nguyen Van Hoang from Bac Ninh High School for the Gifted.

In addition, Ta Duc Anh, also a 12th grader from Hanoi Teacher Training University’s High School for the Gifted, was awarded a certificate of merit for his performance.

The 65th edition of the IMO saw 609 contestants from 109 countries and territories engage in intense mathematical problem-solving across two days. Each competition day challenged the contestants with a 4.5-hour exam.

This year, the exams included notably difficult combinatorial problems, adding to the complexity of the competition. According to the IMO guidelines, the top 50% of contestants receive official prizes, and certificates of merit are awarded to those achieving a perfect score on at least one problem.

The closing ceremony and award presentation are scheduled for July 21 at 4:00 PM (UK time). This event will officially conclude the competition, celebrating the achievements of all participating students.

Thuy Nga