The BRICS TimesGlobal Young Minds Converge in Sirius for the 22nd IJSO-2025
22nd IJSO Begins with Interdisciplinary Focus
The 22nd International Junior Science Olympiad (IJSO-2025) has commenced at the Sirius Educational Centre. Teams from 24 countries are participating. They will showcase their expertise in the fields of chemistry, physics, and biology. National teams have arrived in Sirius. These include teams from Russia, Vietnam, Indonesia, India, Qatar, Kazakhstan, Colombia, and Costa Rica, among other nations. The organisers of this year’s Olympiad introduced a novel approach to task preparation.
Practical, Interdisciplinary Tasks are the Key
The Head of the Sirius Educational Centre, Elena Shmeleva, explained the new methodology. She is also the Chair of the Council of the Sirius Federal Territory. “Whereas traditionally the tasks were created independently for the three subjects – physics, chemistry and biology – this year the emphasis has been placed on interdisciplinary knowledge at the intersection of these subjects. Our industrial partners were integrated into the task-setting process so that the problems would be not theoretical but practical in nature,” she stated.
Competition Structure and Unique Opportunities
The International Junior Science Olympiad comprises three rigorous rounds. Every participant gets an individual workstation. This station is fully equipped. It includes computers with the necessary software for theoretical challenges. It also has equipment for practical team-based research. All competition tasks must be completed in English.
Interestingly, the Olympiad is running concurrently with the Congress of Young Scientists this year. This Congress is a major science and technology event. During breaks, the school students will visit the congress venues. They will get to meet scientists and representatives from Russia’s top science and technology firms. This provides a rare chance for young talents. They can witness the biggest accomplishments of modern science. They can also network with professionals from various countries.
Awards and IJSO History
The event will recognise the prize-winners and winners. They will be chosen based on both individual and team standings. The event’s partners have also planned special awards. The International Junior Science Olympiad is the only global multidisciplinary contest for students aged 15 and below. It has been held annually since 2004. This year marks Russia’s debut as the host nation. The Olympiad is scheduled to run from November 23 to December 2.
