Pakistani Students Shine on Global Stage with Historic Wins at Science Olympiads
Pakistan has made history in international science competitions as its students secured unprecedented achievements — the nation’s first-ever gold medal and a bronze at two of the most prestigious Science Olympiads in the world.
Gold in Biology Olympiad: Abdul Raffay Paracha Creates History
Abdul Raffay Paracha, a student of Siddique Public School, Rawalpindi, brought immense pride to the country by winning a gold medal at the 35th International Biology Olympiad (IBO) held in the Philippines from July 20 to 27, 2025. This is the first time Pakistan has ever won gold at this event, marking a major milestone in the nation’s scientific journey.
Bronze in Physics Olympiad: Daniyal Shahzad Stands Out
Meanwhile, Daniyal Shahzad Hamid from The Science School, Rawat, Islamabad, earned a bronze medal at the 55th International Physics Olympiad (IPhO) held in France from July 17 to 25, 2025. His performance further highlighted the rising standard of STEM education in Pakistan.
STEM Careers Programme – Building Future Scientists
These achievements were made possible through the STEM Careers Programme, a collaborative initiative between the Higher Education Commission (HEC) and the Pakistan Institute of Engineering and Applied Sciences (PIEAS). This program selects, trains, and mentors gifted students across Pakistan to prepare them for global science contests.
The Pakistani team for IBO was led by Dr. Asma Imran and Dr. Asma Rehman from the National Institute of Biotechnology and Genetic Engineering (NIBGE), a constituent institute of PIEAS.
Other Notable Achievements
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Ayyan Aslam, from Government College University Lahore, received an Honourable Mention.
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Sadia Zulfiqar (Siddique Public School, Rawalpindi) and Arooj Fatima (Fusion College, Shakargarh) also represented Pakistan with great distinction.
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At IPhO, Muhammad Bilal from Sundar STEM School, Lahore, also earned an Honourable Mention.
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Eiman Fatima from Fazaia Inter College, PAF Base Nur Khan, won the prestigious Thales Solidarity Award, including a €5,000 grant and a one-year international mentorship.
PIEAS and the National Science Talent Contest (NSTC)
PIEAS, under the Pakistan Atomic Energy Commission (PAEC), runs the National Science Talent Contest (NSTC) in four subjects: Physics, Chemistry, Biology, and Mathematics. Initially launched in 1995 as the National Physics Talent Contest, the program has evolved into a national training system preparing students for international academic excellence.
Since 2001, over 380 Pakistani students have participated in the International Science Olympiads, winning 140 medals to date. More than 4,500 students have received rigorous training through 240+ STEM camps conducted nationwide.
Empowering the Future of Pakistan Through Science
These groundbreaking achievements signal a promising future for Pakistan in the realm of science and technology. The success of students like Abdul Raffay and Daniyal demonstrates not only individual brilliance but also the impact of structured mentorship and scientific investment.
Their medals serve as a symbol of national pride and show that with the right support, Pakistani youth can excel on any stage in the world.