Saudi Gazette report

RIYADH — A team of thirty-five talented Saudi students flew out of Riyadh on Wednesday to compete in the Regeneron International Science and Engineering Fair (ISEF 2024), taking place in Los Angeles, United States, from May 10 to 18. Representing King Abdulaziz and his Companions Foundation for Giftedness and Creativity (Mawhiba), these students will join peers from 70 countries, participating in the world’s largest and most renowned pre-college scientific research and innovation competition.

Selected from over 210,000 participants across various regions of the Kingdom at the start of the year, these students advanced through multiple rounds of the "Ibdaa" National Olympiad for Scientific Creativity. Initially narrowed down to 180 finalists, only 45 students made it to the final stage, out of which 35 were chosen to represent Saudi Arabia at ISEF.

Mawhiba detailed that these students underwent rigorous training provided by both Saudi and international academic trainers and experts in various disciplines. This preparation was part of a collaborative effort involving national incubators, universities, research centers, and the students’ families and teachers, aimed at enhancing their skills for the global stage.

In addition to competing, Mawhiba will also play a pivotal role at ISEF 2024 as a main sponsor. The foundation will offer special prizes for the best projects in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM), including scholarships for undergraduate studies at the King Fahd University of Petroleum and Minerals and opportunities to join the Mawhiba Universal Enrichment Program.

This year marks the 18th consecutive year of Saudi participation in international science competitions, with the Kingdom's students having won a total of 133 awards since 2007, including 92 grand prizes and 41 special distinctions. This record highlights the ongoing commitment of Saudi Arabia to nurturing a culture of innovation and scientific excellence among its youth.