Morocco secured a silver medal and an honorable mention at the 56th International Physics Olympiad (IPhO) in Bucaramanga, Colombia, held July 4-12. Student Said Telhmerit earned the silver medal, while Hafsa Boukhajjou received a certificate of appreciation. The delegation was selected by the Ministry of National Education, Preschool and Sports.
Morocco’s Performance at the 56th IPhO
The Moroccan team’s performance in Colombia marks the country’s second appearance at the international competition. According to Morocco’s Ambassador to Colombia, Farida Loudaya, the five-student delegation represented the country in both theoretical and experimental physics challenges.
The students representing Morocco included Ikram Amazzal, Hafsa Boukhajjou, Jad El Mouden, Adam Mirhiss, and Said Telhmerit. Following the closing ceremony on July 12, Ambassador Loudaya stated that the results reflect the excellence of Moroccan youth and their capacity to compete at the highest levels of global scientific events.
Did you know?
The International Physics Olympiad is regarded as one of the most prestigious global science competitions for secondary school students, focusing on advanced analytical and laboratory problem-solving.
Expanding Global Scientific Participation
This achievement builds on a broader trend of Moroccan students increasing their presence in international scientific forums. Beyond the IPhO, Moroccan students have engaged in European-based programs to foster scientific collaboration.
In June, students from the STM School in Fez participated in Exposciences Occitanie 2026 and the MOBISCIENCES 2026 program. Held at the University of Toulouse in France, these events are supported by the Erasmus+ initiative, which focuses on international science mobility.
Pro Tips for Competitive Physics
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the International Physics Olympiad?
The IPhO is a prestigious competition for high school students designed to test their knowledge of physics through rigorous theoretical and laboratory examinations.
How are Moroccan students selected for the IPhO?
The delegation is chosen by the Ministry of National Education, Preschool and Sports, which identifies top-performing students to represent the country on the international stage.
What other international programs are Moroccan students participating in?
Recent participants have attended European events such as Exposciences Occitanie and the Erasmus+-funded MOBISCIENCES program in France.
Are you interested in learning more about how Moroccan youth are shaping the future of global science? Subscribe to our newsletter or leave a comment below to share your thoughts on the importance of international STEM competitions.