2024, July 11
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For the first time in Kazakhstan, an international olympiad for young biologists is taking place
2024, July 11
Share this articleAt NU, the prestigious International Biology Olympiad «IBO-2024» is currently underway. This competition among young biologists is being held in Kazakhstan for the first time.
On July 9th, practical exams for the 35th International Biology Olympiad began at NU, with 305 students from 81 countries participating. The practical exams cover four rounds: biochemistry, molecular biology, bioinformatics, and animal anatomy and physiology.
All tasks have been developed by young Kazakh biologists and approved by members of the Scientific Committee of «IBO-2024». Eldar Urkumbayev, a member of the Olympiad's Scientific Committee, explained, «We expect a wide range of knowledge from basic biological facts to very creative approaches to biology. Participants must synthesize this basic information to create new facts they have not encountered before but can deduce from the problem conditions and the information we provide.»
The «International Biology Olympiad» is one of the top seven subject competitions globally. Kazakhstani students have been regular participants for 28 years, earning over 70 awards of various levels of distinction: 2 gold, 20 silver, and 54 bronze medals. Considering this achievement, the international organizing committee decided to host the olympiad in Astana this year. In this current tournament, the country is represented by four talented students.
NU serves as one of the main partners of «IBO-2024», providing its venue and modern laboratories that meet all international standards for hosting such a significant international knowledge competition.
«The organization of the olympiad is at the highest level,» noted inspector Birte Cimermann from Denmark. «The huge laboratories, beautiful lighting, and ample space are very impressive.»
In addition to the main intellectual tournament, participants will enjoy a tour of the capital and the Akmola region's landmarks. There will also be events to introduce them to the history and national art of Kazakhstan.
