Young scientists make Pakistan proud at international event in Malaysia
KUALA LUMPUR — In a major academic milestone for Pakistan, four high school students claimed top positions at the 2nd International Nuclear Science Olympiad (INSO-2025), held in Malaysia’s capital on August 5. Competing against participants from 18 other countries, the Pakistani delegation brought home a gold, a silver, and two bronze medals — a performance that cements the country’s growing stature in nuclear science education.
The competition, backed by the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), brought together some of the brightest young minds from across Asia and the Middle East. Contestants hailed from nations including China, Japan, Türkiye, Singapore, and Saudi Arabia, all vying for recognition in a field often viewed as the backbone of technological and scientific advancement.
Beaconhouse Student Wins Gold for Pakistan
Leading the charge was Muhammad Tayyab Bukhari from Beaconhouse School, Abbottabad, who earned the gold medal for Pakistan. His outstanding performance placed him at the very top of the Olympiad’s rankings.
Close behind, Ammar Asad Warraich from Siddique Public School, Islamabad, secured the silver medal, marking a strong one-two finish for the country. Bronze medals were awarded to two other team members — Rawah Javed (also from Siddique Public School) and Tatheer Aima Naqvi from Chenab College, Jhang.
Behind the Success: Strong Mentorship and National Support
The team’s preparation was overseen by Dr. Sajjad Tahir of the Pakistan Institute of Engineering and Applied Sciences (PIEAS) and Dr. Muhammad Maqsood from the Pakistan Atomic Energy Commission’s Directorate of Education. Both institutions have long played a central role in developing nuclear science expertise within the country, not just for energy and industry, but increasingly for peaceful and humanitarian applications like healthcare and agriculture.
More Than Medals: A Signal of Scientific Momentum
While the medals are a source of national pride, they also reflect a broader shift in Pakistan’s focus toward high-level STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics) education. Participation in platforms like INSO signals the country’s intent to be more active in international scientific dialogues — particularly in nuclear science, where responsible development and peaceful applications are crucial.
Pakistan’s performance this year demonstrates not just academic talent, but the growing institutional support behind it — a promising indicator for the nation’s scientific future.