Uzbekistan Hosts International Chemistry Olympiad for First Time

Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.uz) — Uzbekistan has officially opened the 58th International Chemistry Olympiad (IChO 2026), becoming the first country in Central Asia to host one of the world's largest international chemistry competitions.

Representatives of the joint-stock company Uzkimyosanoat took part in the opening ceremony. The Olympiad will run until 19 July and has brought together talented school students from more than 90 countries.

During the competition, participants will demonstrate their theoretical knowledge, practical chemistry skills, analytical thinking and scientific potential.

The International Chemistry Olympiad is regarded as one of the world's most prestigious subject-based competitions and one of the largest international platforms for STEM education. It aims to support talented young people, promote scientific cooperation and identify promising young scientists.

Speakers at the opening ceremony highlighted Uzbekistan's efforts to advance science and education, improve the quality of youth education and expand international cooperation. They said hosting an Olympiad of this scale would help strengthen the country's international standing in science and education.

During the ceremony, participants also recalled that at the 57th International Chemistry Olympiad, held in the United Arab Emirates in 2025, Uzbekistan achieved its best-ever result by winning two gold and two silver medals and finishing sixth overall among 95 participating countries.

According to the organisers, hosting IChO 2026 in Uzbekistan reflects the country's ongoing reforms in science, innovation and support for talented young people, and marks an important step in strengthening its position within the international scientific community.