Nigeria’s representatives have won three gold medals in different categories at the 2026 International STEM Olympiad held in Rome, Italy.
Don Anele Munachimso won gold in Science making him the best in world science while Chimdiebube Onwubiko got a Silver Medal in the Science Category (Grades 9-11). Both also won gold medals in the Mathematics category (Grades 9–11) to go with their science prizes.
Onyedikachi Egejurum got a Gold emerging as the best in Mathematics in the world Primary Category. The three students were sponsored on the trip by Educare CEO, Alex Onyia.
Following the widespread buzz generated by Nigeria’s participation in the 2026 edition, the Ministry of Education has now contacted the National Mathematical Centre to request that it submit all national Olympiad competitions it organizes.
International STEM Olympiad
The International STEM Olympiad (ISO) is an international academic competition that encourages excellence in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) among students.
The competition typically brings together students from primary and secondary schools, although eligibility requirements vary depending on the organizing body. Participants are tested on concepts drawn from mathematics, the natural sciences, engineering principles, computer science, and logical reasoning.
Unlike globally recognized subject-specific competitions such as the International Mathematical Olympiad, International Physics Olympiad, International Chemistry Olympiad, and International Biology Olympiad, which are organized through national selection processes for elite students, the International STEM Olympiad generally adopts a broader and more inclusive approach. Many editions are open to a wider range of participants, allowing students of varying academic backgrounds to compete and develop their skills while promoting wider engagement with STEM education.
It is important to note that there is no single global organization that exclusively owns or administers the “International STEM Olympiad” name. Different educational organizations, foundations, and STEM education providers organize competitions under similar titles, each with its own syllabus, competition format, eligibility criteria, and award structure
