July 19, 09:12

The 58th International Chemistry Olympiad IChO–2026 concluded in Uzbekistan

A solemn closing ceremony for IChO–2026, the 58th International Chemistry Olympiad held in Uzbekistan, took place in the capital. This event was a celebration of true knowledge, education, and talent.

Participants and Scale of the Event

The ceremony was attended by Ilhom Sirozhev, Deputy Head of the Administration of the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan for Education Reform, Ezoza Karimova, Minister of Preschool and School Education, Qo'ngirotboy Sharipov, Minister of Higher Education, Science and Innovation, representatives of foreign embassies, Olympiad participants, relevant ministries and organizations, as well as representatives of local and foreign media and the general public.

Since this was the first Olympiad Uzbekistan hosted in the history of Central Asian countries, approximately 1000 students, team leaders, members of the International Scientific Committee, observers, and foreign guests from 94 countries participated. Participants demonstrated their knowledge over a week through both practical and theoretical tests. Furthermore, they familiarized themselves with outstanding historical and cultural monuments of the country.

Speeches by Officials

Ilhom Sirozhev, Deputy Head of the Administration of the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan for Education Reform, and Jon Leon Kiapyes, Chairman of the Steering Committee of the 58th International Chemistry Olympiad, emphasized that holding an international Olympiad is a practical result of large-scale educational reforms being carried out under the leadership of President Shavkat Mirziyoyev.

Jon Leon Kiapyes noted that Uzbekistan demonstrated a high level of hospitality, adding: 'We saw how highly guests are valued in the example of Uzbekistan. Here, participants not only tested their knowledge but also befriended and communicated. I am sure that every participant left in their heart sincere gratitude, saying: 'Ming rahmat, O‘zbekiston!''. He also wished all participants great success, comparing them to the symbol of the Uzbek people—the Humo bird.

Structure and Tasks of the Olympiad

The tests of the 58th International Chemistry Olympiad were organized in two directions: practical and theoretical. The maximum score for the practical test was 40 points, and for the theoretical test—60 points, totaling an overall score of 100 points.

In the practical stage, participants were given five hours to complete three laboratory assignments. The theoretical stage included nine chemistry questions, for which five hours were also allocated. Among the questions were interesting topics related to the history, nature, and scientific potential of Uzbekistan.

Participants' Feedback

Filipino student Azman Usop noted that the Olympiad took place under conditions of complex and intense competition. He also emphasized that the presence of interesting questions related to Uzbekistan made a big impression on him. He stated that his interest in the country's history, culture, and great scientists increased, and he acquired many souvenirs at the Chorsu bazaar. Azman Usop also learned several Uzbek phrases, such as 'Assalomu alaykum', 'rahmat', and 'xush kelibsiz.'

Tutor from the Sultanate of Oman, Amani Alofi, expressed the opinion that Uzbekistan organized this international Olympiad with great responsibility. He noted that through this competition, he once again confirmed the country's hospitality and friendliness. Alofi also stressed that there was a strong emphasis on preserving the heritage of great scientists who contributed to world civilization, and the country's history, culture, and scientific and spiritual heritage made a deep impression on every participant.

Results and Awarding

Following the Olympiad, many participants received commendation diplomas. Specifically, 112 participants were awarded bronze, 74 silver, and 41 gold medals. At the solemn award ceremony, all members of the Uzbek team achieved prize positions. Among them, Raihona Tuymurodova won a gold medal, while Jasur Mustafoyev, Azizmuhammad Hafizov, and Mirjalol Homidjonov received silver medals.

According to the state head's decision dated September 30, 2024, monetary prizes are provided to winners of international Olympiads: 1.3 billion 30 million sums for a gold medal, and 185.4 million sums for their teacher; 618 million sums for a silver medal, and 103 million sums for their teacher; 412 million sums for a bronze medal, and 61.8 million sums for their teacher.

IChO–2026, held in Uzbekistan, not only identified the most talented specialists in the field of chemistry but also secured a worthy place in history as a prestigious international platform inspiring young scientists toward new ideas, research, and discoveries.

sputniknews.uzJuly 12, 14:12

Eight Controversial Moments of the 2026 FIFA World Cup That Sparked Criticism

The 2026 FIFA World Cup left behind not only unexpected results but also disputes related to refereeing, political interference, racism, ticket prices, and the excessive commercialization of the tournament.

Key Issues of the Tournament

Among the most discussed events of the 2026 World Cup were controversial referee decisions, political influence, instances of racism, high ticket prices, and the transformation of breaks into advertising pauses.

Details of Controversial Incidents

Eight key incidents that generated the most discussion during the 2026 World Cup were compiled.

Political Pressure and Disqualifications

American forward Folarin Balogun received a red card in the match against Bosnia and Herzegovina. His automatic one-year suspension was later postponed to a probationary period, allowing the player to play against Belgium. US President Donald Trump contacted FIFA President Gianni Infantino to request a review of this decision. This situation intensified discussions about the influence of politics on football decisions, to which UEFA reacted sharply by criticizing FIFA's decision.

Racist Incidents and Complaints

After France defeated Paraguay, Paraguayan Senator Celeste Amarilla insulted Kylian Mbappé using racist remarks, calling him a 'Cameroonian' due to his skin color and African origin. Mbappé called the senator unworthy of his position, and the French Football Federation announced its intention to take legal action.

Furthermore, the Egyptian national team filed an official complaint with FIFA after the match against Argentina. Despite Egypt leading 2-0 in the semi-final, they ultimately lost 2-3. Mostafa Zico's goal was disallowed via VAR, and the penalty that the Egyptians demanded late in the game was not awarded.

Technology and Controversial Goals

In the Croatia vs. Portugal match, Josko Gvardiol equalized in extra time. However, a sensor installed in the ball registered a slight touch from Igor Matanovic, leading to the goal being disallowed for offside. A minor touch, almost imperceptible to the human eye, caused dissatisfaction from the Croatian side. Luka Modric commented on the use of technology, and the Croatian Football Federation requested clarification from FIFA.

Questions for Referees and Stars

In the first match between Argentina and Jagoira, Lionel Messi made a dangerous tackle from behind against defender Ayse Mandi. The referee awarded a free kick, but Messi did not even receive a yellow card. Following this incident, when Balogun received a red card in a similar situation, fans and experts began discussing preferential treatment for star footballers.

There were also disputes surrounding the penalty in the England vs. Ghana match. In the 0-0 game, an infringement was called during an aerial duel between Ezri Konsa and Kwabena Prince, but the referee did not award a penalty, and VAR did not review the incident.

Commercialization and Breaks

Ghana captain Charles Keirush called on FIFA to review the use of the VAR system. Antoine Semenyo emphasized the need for players to more actively demand reviews of referee decisions.

High ticket prices also caused discontent among fans: group stage tickets started from $140, and finals tickets from $4,000. After criticism, FIFA introduced a limited batch of special tickets at a price of $60. Fan organizations, however, consider the prices unreasonably high.

Another point was the three-minute water breaks in the 22nd and 67th minutes of matches. FIFA explained this as concern for player health. Nevertheless, when television channels began showing advertisements during these breaks, suspicions arose that the decision was made for commercial purposes, although FIFA denied these claims.

uza.uzJuly 11, 14:00

Uzbekistan Team Achieves Historic Result at the 56th International Physics Olympiad

The Uzbek national team participated in the 56th International Physics Olympiad (IPhO 2026), held in Colombia from July 4 to July 12 of this year, and for the first time in history won two gold and two bronze medals.

Participants' Results in the Olympiad

Young physicists representing their country at this prestigious international event demonstrated the following achievements. Asilbek Zhumanazarov, a student at the specialized school affiliated with the Tashkent National Research University 'Institute of Irrigation and Agricultural Mechanization', received a gold medal. Muhammad Abdumalikov, a student of the Mirzo Ulugbek Specialized School, also won a gold medal.

Awards Received

Additionally, Elbek Uroqov, who studies at the specialized school affiliated with the Tashkent National Research University 'Institute of Irrigation and Agricultural Mechanization', received a bronze medal. Hasan Kamolov, a student of the 1st Specialized School of the city of Qo'qon, also won a bronze medal. Javhohir Aknazarov received an encouragement award as a student of the Mirzo Ulugbek Specialized School.

Significance of Participation in IPhO

The members of the national team set a new record in their participation history by winning their first gold title at this Olympiad. The International Physics Olympiad (IPhO) provides an opportunity not only to solve complex theoretical and experimental problems but also to exchange knowledge and experience at the international level.

uza.uzJuly 9, 14:43

Graduates of secondary schools who achieved high results were honored in Boyovutsky district

A traditional ceremony to award graduates of general education schools who completed the 2025/2026 academic year with high results took place in the Boyovutsky district Youth Center.

Participants of the Ceremony

The event was attended by Avazbek Alashukurov, Deputy Head of the Boyovutsky District, Odil Gaimnazarov, Head of the District Department of Preschool and School Education, heads of educational institutions, teachers, the graduates themselves, and their parents.

Awarding Top Students

During the ceremony, young people who graduated from 56 general education schools in the district with excellent grades were recognized. In particular, two graduates were awarded gold medals, and three graduates were awarded silver medals.

Wishes and Congratulations

Speakers at the event sincerely congratulated the youth on their high achievements, emphasizing that this success is the result of a thirst for knowledge, diligence, the dedicated work of teachers, and the constant support of parents. Good wishes were also extended to the graduates to achieve high results in higher education and demonstrate their potential for the benefit of the country's and Fatherland's development.

Conclusion of the Event

At the end of the ceremony, the awarded graduates were presented with commemorative gifts, and they took joint photographs with their parents and teachers. Such recognitions play an important role in motivating young people and strengthening their desire to acquire knowledge.