Riyadh: Deputy Director General and Head of the Department of Technical Cooperation at the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) Hua Liu said Saudi Arabia's hosting of the third International Nuclear Science Olympiad (INSO 2026) reflects the Kingdom's advanced standing in promoting knowledge and innovation. He said it also demonstrates the Kingdom's commitment to developing young scientific talent and strengthening international cooperation in nuclear science and technology.
According to Saudi Press Agency, speaking at the opening ceremony of INSO 2026 in Jeddah, Liu congratulated Saudi Arabia on hosting the international scientific event. On behalf of the IAEA, he also congratulated the Ministry of Education, the King Abdulaziz and His Companions Foundation for Giftedness and Creativity (Mawhiba), the King Abdullah City for Atomic and Renewable Energy (K.A.CARE), and King Abdulaziz University in recognition of their efforts to organize the Olympiad and host outstanding gifted students from around the world.
Liu said the third edition marks an important milestone in the development of INSO, which is rapidly evolving into an inspiring global platform for young people. He added that it helps advance science education and prepare future talent in nuclear science and technology.
The IAEA deputy director general also expressed hope that future editions of INSO would attract broader participation from more countries, schools, teachers, and students.
He noted that nuclear science and technology play a pivotal role in advancing the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) through their peaceful applications in disease diagnosis and cancer treatment, strengthening food security, managing water resources, protecting the environment and cultural heritage, improving industrial processes, and generating reliable low-carbon energy.
Liu indicated that the sustainability of nuclear applications depends not only on technology but also on developing human capital, including scientists, engineers, healthcare professionals, researchers, teachers, technicians, and regulatory personnel. He said this helps ensure the safe and responsible use of nuclear technologies in line with the highest standards of safety, security, and efficiency.
He also stressed that the IAEA places sustainable human resource development among the priorities of its Technical Cooperation Program through an integrated approach that goes beyond individual training. The approach includes strengthening science education, developing university programs, supporting professional development, and building the capacity of national institutions.
Additionally, Liu encouraged participants to seize the opportunity to expand their scientific knowledge, embrace curiosity and exploration, and learn from their peers' experiences. He stressed that the knowledge, professional connections, and self-confidence they gain would remain among the most valuable outcomes of their participation, regardless of the competition's results.