Two students from the VNU High School for Gifted Students in Natural Sciences won one gold and one silver medal at the second Al-Fergani International Physics Olympiad (FIPhO 2026), contributing to Vietnam's impressive performance as all four national team members secured medals.
The competition took place in Samarkand, Uzbekistan, from October 10 to 17, attracting 107 contestants from 15 countries and territories. Vietnam ranked fourth overall, behind Russia, China and host Uzbekistan, with one gold, two silver and one bronze medal, according to the Ministry of Education and Training.
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Le Ba Tuan Viet, a student at the High School for Gifted Students in Natural Sciences under the VNU University of Science, won the gold medal, while his schoolmate Truong Ba Chi Thanh secured a silver medal.
The other silver medal went to Tang Hao Nhien from Quoc Hoc Hue High School for Gifted Students in Hue City, while Le Hong Nhan from Lam Son High School for Gifted Students in Thanh Hoa Province earned the bronze medal.
The Vietnamese team was selected from students who were in Grade 11 during the 2025–2026 academic year and had participated in the Ministry of Education and Training's selection examination for the 2026 International Physics Olympiad. Hanoi National University of Education was assigned to organize the delegation and provide intensive training for the contestants.
Named after the renowned scientist Ahmad al-Fergani, the Olympiad aims to inspire young people's interest in physics, strengthen scientific research capabilities and promote international academic exchanges.
This year's examination placed particular emphasis on applying physics knowledge to analyze, explain and solve problems related to real-world situations and modern science. Contestants completed two five-hour examinations on separate days, covering theoretical and experimental physics. The theoretical section comprised three problems worth a maximum of 60 points, while the experimental section carried 40 points.
The demanding examinations required students to demonstrate not only a thorough understanding of fundamental physical principles but also strong analytical thinking, logical reasoning and practical problem-solving skills.
Beyond the competition, FIPhO 2026 provided opportunities for young physics enthusiasts to exchange knowledge, broaden their scientific perspectives and engage with peers from different countries.
The achievements of Le Ba Tuan Viet and Truong Ba Chi Thanh reflect the academic capabilities and determination of students at the VNU High School for Gifted Students in Natural Sciences. They also underscore the importance of sustained efforts in identifying, nurturing and supporting talented young students in pursuing scientific excellence.
