In a historic achievement for the nation, Pakistan has secured its first-ever gold medal at the International Biology Olympiad (IBO) – setting a new benchmark for academic excellence on the global stage.
Gold for Pakistan: A Moment of Pride
Abdur-Rafay Paracha, a student from Siddiq Public School, made the nation proud by winning the gold medal at the 35th International Biology Olympiad, held in the Philippines from July 20 to 27, 2025. This marks Pakistan’s first gold in any International Science Olympiad, highlighting the country’s growing presence in global academic competitions.
STEM Careers Program Powers Pakistan’s Historic Win
The Pakistani team participated under the STEM Careers Program, a collaborative initiative of the Higher Education Commission (HEC) and the Pakistan Institute of Engineering and Applied Sciences (PIEAS).
The team was led by Dr. Asma Imran and Dr. Asma Rahman, both affiliated with the National Institute of Biotechnology and Genetic Engineering (NIBGE) – a sub-institute of PIEAS.
Honors for Other Team Members
Other Pakistani students also left a mark at the competition:
GCU’s Ayyan Aslam Earns Honourable Mention for Pakistan.
Sadia Zulfiqar of Siddiq Public School, Rawalpindi, and Urooj Fatima from Fusion College, Shakargarh Narowal, also represented the country with distinction.
Their participation and performance reflect the growing quality of science education and the passion of Pakistani students for biology and other STEM fields.
A Legacy of Science Talent Development
Over 20 Years of Pakistan’s Rising Presence in Global Science Olympiads:
Pakistan Entered the International Physics Olympiad Arena in 2001
Entered the Mathematics Olympiad in 2005
Joined the Biology and Chemistry Olympiads starting in 2006
Launched as an expansion of the National Physics Talent Contest (NPTC), which began in 1995, the National Science Talent Contest (NSTC) has become a cornerstone in Pakistan’s efforts to discover and develop young scientific minds across physics, chemistry, biology, and mathematics. The program plays a vital role in preparing students for international excellence.
Remarkable Impact of NSTC Program
To date, the NSTC program has:
The program has successfully trained more than 4,500 students by organizing over 240 intensive training camps at various HEC-recognized institutions across Pakistan, ensuring quality mentorship and preparation for international science competitions
Sent over 380 students to represent Pakistan internationally
Achieved 140 international medals in science Olympiads
This success is a testament to the consistent effort of educators, institutions, and the government in nurturing scientific talent across the country.
Inspiring the Future of Science in Pakistan
Pakistan’s first gold medal at the IBO is more than a personal victory for Abdur-Rafay – it is a national milestone. It symbolizes what can be achieved through structured support, mentorship, and academic investment in the country’s youth.
With growing opportunities and increasing participation in global competitions, Pakistan is well on its way to becoming a force to be reckoned with in the world of science and technology.
