Türkiye to participate in International Nuclear Science Olympiad for first time

Türkiye will participate in the International Nuclear Science Olympiad (INSO-2026) as a competing country for the first time. The competition is scheduled to take place from August 2 to 9 in Jeddah, a city on the Red Sea coast of Saudi Arabia.

According to Türkiye's Ministry of Energy and Natural Resources, the high school students representing Türkiye have completed their final preparations in the capital Ankara. The participating students come from Istanbul Private Bahçeşehir Science High School, who were selected through a nationwide competition, standing out from 30 schools to earn the right to represent Türkiye.

During the preparation period, students received systematic training in atomic structure, atomic nucleus, radiation, fission, fusion, environmental radioactivity, radiation risks and safety, as well as applications of nuclear energy and radiation technology. Before the competition, the team also completed a two-day practical training at the Nuclear Energy Institute (NUKEN) under the Turkish Energy, Nuclear and Mineral Research Agency (TENMAK), covering laboratory operations and the use of research equipment.

Last year, Türkiye participated in the competition as an observer. This year marks the third edition of the International Nuclear Science Olympiad and the first time Türkiye has officially sent a team to compete. The competition aims to promote international exchange and cooperation in the field of nuclear science and technology education.

Participating student Ömer Akan stated that the team has made thorough preparations for the competition and hopes to achieve good results. Another student, Mert Andak Kara, said that as the first team from Türkiye, the members look forward to bringing back medals.