Vietnam has once again proven its academic prowess on the global stage, securing three gold medals and one silver at the 2024 International Chemistry Olympiad (ICHO) held in Saudi Arabia. This stellar performance places Vietnam second out of 89 participating countries and territories, matching the ranking of the United States and only trailing behind China.

The gold medalists are Nguyen Huu Tien Hung from Bac Ninh High School for the Gifted, Giap Vu Son Ha from Bac Giang High School for the Gifted, and Tran Dang Khoi from Hanoi-Amsterdam High School for the Gifted. The silver medal was awarded to Do Phu Quoc from Le Thanh Tong High School for the Gifted in Quang Nam province.

The ICHO 2024 took place from July 21 to July 30, drawing 327 contestants from 89 countries and territories. The competition consisted of a rigorous theoretical exam and a practical exam, each lasting five hours. This year's practical exam featured several new elements with contemporary relevance, challenging participants to apply comprehensive thinking and precise technical skills. The theoretical exam focused on the applications of chemistry in industries, environmental pollution treatment, and advanced materials.

The Vietnamese team’s achievement at the ICHO continues a trend of outstanding performances over the past five years. From 2020 to 2024, all 20 Vietnamese contestants who participated in the ICHO have earned medals, amassing a total of 17 gold and 3 silver medals. This consistent success keeps Vietnam in the top three countries globally based on the number of gold medals won.

The Ministry of Education and Training (MOET) of Vietnam expressed pride and satisfaction with the results, highlighting the dedication and talent of the students as well as the support from their schools and families. The success at the ICHO underscores the strength of Vietnam's education system in fostering high academic standards and nurturing exceptional talent in the sciences.

Thanh Hung