Six Bhutanese students are representing the nation at the 66th International Mathematical Olympiad (IMO), currently underway in Sunshine Coast, Queensland in Australia. The event held from July 10 to 20 brings together over 635 of the brightest students from 114 countries competing in the world’s most prestigious mathematics competition for high school students.
The national team includes Nidup Pema Yangden from Yangchenphug Higher Secondary School, Jigme Dawa Zangmo from Babesa Higher Secondary School, Rinchen Pelzang from Jigme Sherabling Higher Secondary School, Tenzin Rabgay from Jigme Sherabling Higher Secondary School, Pema Tenzin from Phuntsholing Higher Secondary School and Pema Ugyen Dendup from The Royal Academy. They are accompanied by two teachers and an official from the Ministry.
These students were among the top performers in the HRH Gyalsey Annual Mathematics Award 2024 competition who got selected for the Olympiad through an intensive assessment process. To prepare for the international stage, they underwent an intensive month-long winter training camp led by IMO trainers.
This marks Bhutan’s second appearance at the IMO following its debut at the 65th IMO in the United Kingdom last year.
During the competition, each country with a team of up to six students competes over two days solving six highly challenging problems in areas such as combinatorics, number theory, geometry and algebra. The contestants will have the opportunity to earn Gold, Silver and Bronze medals as well as Honourable Mentions for their outstanding achievements.
Beyond competition, the IMO nurtures intellectual growth, international camaraderie and life-changing opportunities for students. It promises to be a celebration of mathematical excellence, cross-cultural exchange and academic inspiration.
The IMO was first held in Romania in 1959 with just seven countries and has since grown to include over 100 nations. Renowned for its rigor, the IMO serves as a benchmark for identifying the world’s top young mathematical minds with many former winners going on to become leaders in mathematics including recipients of the prestigious Fields Medal.
Interacting with the team on July 11, the Hon’ble Lyonpo for Education and Skills Development congratulated them for making it to the international stage. She encouraged them to make the most of the opportunity highlighting the value of such global exposure in shaping their academic and personal growth.
