The 4th International Chemistry Olympiad among university students has officially begun in Ashgabat, the capital of Turkmenistan. The competition will take place from October 15 to 17, organized by the Magtymguly Turkmen State University.

The Olympiad is being held in person on the university campus. The official languages of the competition are Turkmen, Russian, and English. Participants will compete individually in two categories — “A” and “B.”

Category A includes students specializing in chemistry, while Category B is open to students from non-chemistry fields. Each participating university may delegate up to four undergraduate or specialist students and one academic advisor, following the 4+1 format.

The results will be determined based on individual performance, and diplomas and medals will be awarded to the winners.

At the official opening ceremony, Durdymyrat Annaev, Vice-Rector of Magtymguly Turkmen State University, emphasized that Turkmenistan’s educational and socio-economic policies — particularly efforts to strengthen the material and technical base of education and modernize teaching methods — are being successfully implemented under the wise leadership of President Serdar Berdimuhamedov.

“As part of national programs, concepts, and strategies aimed at improving the education system, Turkmenistan is carrying out extensive work to educate and train young people, help them master professions, and cultivate a healthy generation devoted to their Motherland, people, and ancestral traditions,” Annaev said.

“New educational fields and specializations are consistently being introduced, and the 4th International Chemistry Olympiad — aimed at identifying talented youth and expanding international educational cooperation — is a vivid example of these efforts.”

The Olympiad has brought together 100 students from 24 universities in the Russian Federation, People’s Republic of China, Italy, Islamic Republic of Iran, United Kingdom, Belarus, Kazakhstan, Azerbaijan, Armenia, Tajikistan, and Uzbekistan, along with 150 students representing 23 Turkmen universities.

The jury includes professors, lecturers, and scientific experts from Turkmen educational institutions as well as international scholars, including Japanese scientists who are participating as independent observers.

Organizers expressed confidence that the International Chemistry Olympiad will make a significant contribution to strengthening friendship and cooperation among students, allowing participants to exchange experiences, learn from global best practices, and further develop their professional chemistry skills.