The most prestigious international biology competition among school students, IBO-2024, concluded in Astana, Kazakhstan, El.kz reports citing the Ministry of Education's press service.
Originally held 34 years ago with representatives from six countries, this year's event in the capital city gathered teams from 81 countries.
During the closing ceremony, Kazakhstan's Minister of Education expressed gratitude to all participants and the international organising committee for their high evaluation. He emphasized the event's significance for the entire education sector, stating, "IBO-2024 is not only a competitive platform for knowledge but also an important international event promoting friendship and cooperation among nations in the field of science. I believe each day spent in Kazakhstan will leave you with vivid memories and inspire you to achieve new heights in science in the future. Heartfelt congratulations to the winners and medalists of the Olympiad! I hope that in the future, you will make significant scientific discoveries and continue the illustrious path of the world's great scientists."
The inspection and jury members of the International Committee highly praised the organization of IBO-2024, noting the uniqueness and relevance of the tasks developed by young Kazakh scientists. For the organizing committee, this recognition was the highest reward for their long and diligent preparation.
The Kazakhstan team showed a perfect performance, securing four bronze medals:
The team leaders of Kazakhstan included BauyrzhanSmaiylov, a biotechnology master and bronze medalist of IBO-2007, and Ernar Batyrzhanov, a student at Ulsan National Institute of Science and Technology (UNIST, Korea), winner of international and national biology Olympiads.
The International Biology Olympiad ranks among the top 7 international competitions for school students. Over the course of seven days, Kazakhstan became a hub for 305 young biologists and 275 scientists from 81 countries to exchange experiences. Participants competed in two theoretical and four practical rounds covering biochemistry, molecular biology, bioinformatics, anatomy, and animal physiology. All tasks were prepared by young Kazakh biologists. Participants and guests also had the opportunity to explore Astana's landmarks, including visiting the ethno-village "Nomad's Land" in Borovoe, where they learned about the lifestyle and culture of the Kazakh people.
The competitions took place at NU, where the auditoriums and laboratories fully met the standards and requirements of the International Biology Olympiad, as confirmed by participants, the international jury, and IBO inspectors who gave high marks to the event.