Al Ain: The 34th edition of the International Biology Olympiad (IBO) commenced in Al Ain, as the UAE proudly hosts the prestigious event for the first time in the Arab world. Organized by the Ministry of Education in collaboration with the United Arab Emirates University (UAEU), the week-long competition will bring together 320 students from 80 countries, along with a distinguished panel of 300 jury members and international biology experts.
The opening ceremony, led by Dr. Amna Al Dahak Al Shamsi, the Chairperson of the 34th International Biology Olympiad and Assistant Under-Secretary for the Care and Capacity Building Sector at the Ministry of Education, marked the official beginning of the event. Distinguished guests in attendance included Dr. Suad Mohammed Almarzooqi, Associate Provost for Student Affairs at UAE University, Dr. Lenka Libusová, head of the IBO Coordinating Centre, and Dr. Saber Mudhaffar, Chairman of the Academic Committee of the 34th International Biology Olympiad.
“The UAE has been keen to adopt innovation and creativity as basic pillars in drawing its strategic development plans and part of its endeavors to contribute to achieving its vision for the next 50 years. The UAE has made investments in empowering the youth, recognising their potential as leaders and creators who will shape our future and contribute to our development process,” Dr. Ahmad Belhoul Al Falasi remarked.
Throughout the week-long event, participants will undergo a series of challenging theoretical and practical examinations designed to assess their knowledge, critical thinking abilities, and practical skills in the field of biology. The competition not only encourages healthy academic competition but also fosters a spirit of collaboration and friendship among students from diverse cultural backgrounds. Moreover, the Olympiad offers a unique opportunity for participants to exchange ideas, share experiences, and expand their horizons within the field of biology.
The UAE’s commitment to education and its recognition as a hub for scientific excellence has positioned the country as an ideal host for the 34th International Biology Olympiad. The event showcases the nation’s dedication to nurturing the next generation of scientific leaders and underscores its ongoing efforts to strengthen global scientific collaboration. As the participants embark on this intellectually stimulating journey, the UAE stands ready to provide a platform for their remarkable talents and to foster their passion for biology and life sciences.