IPST launches an orientation to inspire Thai youth for international academic Olympiads in 2026
The Institute for the Promotion of Teaching Science and Technology (IPST) organized the orientation of the first academic training for the selection of Thai representatives to compete in international science and mathematics Olympiads in 2026. The event took place from 6-8 October 2025, at the Grand Tower Inn Hotel, Bangkok. Associate Professor Dr. Thiradet Jiarasuksakun, President of IPST, presided over the opening ceremony, delivered an address, and offered guidance on developing Thai youth to reach their full potential in science and technology. Attendees included Ms. Ratchada Yatra, Director of the Academic Olympiads and Genius Promotion Unit, IPST staff, and more than 120 selected students from across the country. The students, in the fields of mathematics, computer science, chemistry, and physics, participated in the orientation, which aimed to equip them with the knowledge, skills, and attitudes necessary to represent Thailand on the international stage. The program also introduced the first training session and promoted the academic Olympiad scholarships.
The three-day orientation featured a range of special lectures and inspirational activities, including:
President Talk by Associate Professor Dr. Thiradet Jiarasuksakun, President of IPST, inspiring Thai youth to compete on the world stage and sharing insights on learning, potential development, and confidence building
Lecture: “Mind & Medal: Mental Balance for Olympiad Success” by Assistant Professor Dr. Nattasuda Taephant, focusing on building psychological strength and resilience
Lecture: “From Lab to Life: Inspiration Beyond the Competition Stage” by former academic Olympiad representatives, scholarship recipients and camp students, including:
Dr. Pasin Manurangsi, Senior Scientist, Google (IMO 2007–2008 & IOI 2009–2011)
Dr. Pinnaree Tea-makorn, AI Strategist, Sasin Graduate Institute of Business Administration of Chulalongkorn University (IChO 2009 & 2010)
Dr. Yossathorn Tawabutr, Lecturer, Department of Physics, Chulalongkorn University (IOAA 2009–2010 & IESO 2011)
Dr. Suttipong Wannapaiboon, Beamline Scientist, Synchrotron Light Research Institute (Chemistry, Camp 2 2004)
Dr. Kla Karava, Senior Data Scientist, Big Data Institute (Physics, Camp 2 2012)
Dr. Jiratheep Pruchyathamkorn, Consultant, Digital Government Development Agency (IChO 2012 & 2013)
“Olympic Talk: Stories from Seniors to Newcomers”, by past Olympiad representatives, sharing experiences in preparing for global competitions.
Science Tank, a group activity designed to enhance analytical thinking, problem-solving, and teamwork skills.
The training sought to inspire talented Thai youth in mathematics and science to appreciate the value of in-depth learning, develop problem-solving and creative thinking skills, strengthen their mental armor through psychological capital, and foster morality, ethics, and teamwork. These experiences will help prepare them to represent Thailand at international academic Olympiads in 2026.
IPST remains committed to nurturing and promoting the potential of Thai youth to achieve excellence in science and technology, driving the nation forward with sustainable knowledge and innovation.
For more information about the academic Olympiads, please visit https://olympic.ipst.ac.th/ or follow Facebook: Olympic ipst.