From July 17 to 25, five outstanding high school students from Suriname will travel to the 56th International Physics Olympiad in Paris. This highly regarded tournament, in which approximately 85 countries participate, challenges young people to demonstrate their theoretical insight and practical skills in physics.
After a spirited three-stage selection, organized by the Physics Olympiad Suriname Committee (CNOS), Raphael Elliot (Arthur Hoogendoorn Atheneum), Nikhil Jhingoerie (Ad Fontes College), Jason Hu, Jessica Tjon A Tham and Yuepeng He (all from the Ewald Meyer Lyceum) proved to be the strongest candidates. In total, more than 130 VWO students competed for a spot on the national team. This was followed by an intensive training program provided by the Anton de Kom University of Suriname, where theoretical lectures and laboratory sessions alternated.
CNOS president Viren Ajodhia emphasized that participation in this international competition goes beyond mere academic achievement. "Our delegation gets the opportunity to profile Suriname on a global level, meet peers from all over the world and strengthen their personal resilience," Ajodhia said. In 2014, Suriname already won a bronze medal, while in other editions honorable mentions were the order of the day.
Logistical and financial support came about thanks to the combined efforts of business, society and the Rotary Club Paramaribo, which officially adopted the project. Anton de Kom University provided facilities and expertise so that the young physicists are optimally prepared for the challenges in Paris.
With this international mission, the Surinamese participants hope to bring back not only medals, but above all unforgettable experiences and a solid boost for physics at home.
