Hanoi hosts international exam
The International Astronomical and Astrophysical Olympiad (IOAA) is one of 12 prestigious International Science Olympiads. Not only searching for excellent students, IOAA also aims to connect countries, promote knowledge exchange and nurture the passion for exploring the universe in the young generation.
The exam is expected to take place in Hanoi from September 25 to October 5, 2026. According to updated data from the Organizing Committee as of June 30, more than 70 delegations with more than 500 members registered to participate, including more than 300 students. The total number of people participating in organizational, professional and support activities throughout the exam is expected to be about 1,100 people.
Hanoi Department of Education and Training is a standing unit, coordinating with specialized units of the Ministry of Education and Training, Phenikaa University and many related units.
In the preparation phase, from June 29 to July 4, the expert delegation of the IOAA Committee conducted a field survey in Hanoi.
Comprehensive review of conditions serving the exam
On June 30, an international expert delegation and representatives of sub-committees on facilities and expertise directly inspected the planned locations for the exam at Phenikaa University such as: Phenikaa Astronomy Center; Cinema area; The entire journey of candidates during the exam; Outdoor exam locations,...
Sharing after the survey process, Professor Aniket Sule - Chairman of the International Astronomical and Astrophysical Olympiad Committee said: "What we are interested in is not just a exam room or a separate device, but the coordination and operation of the entire system. From expertise, technology to accommodation, movement and safety, everything needs to be closely connected so that candidates have the best conditions to compete.
According to the Chairman of the IOAA Committee, Vietnam has participated in the exam for many years and achieved positive results. Along with the experience of organizing international educational events, this is the basis for the IOAA Committee to believe that Hanoi can successfully organize the 19th exam:
After the working session, the two sides will continue to agree on the contents that need to be adjusted, towards a test that ensures professional quality, safety and brings positive experiences to international delegations" - Chairman of the IOAA Committee shared.
According to Prof. Dr. Pham Thanh Huy - Deputy General Director of Phenikaa University, the value of IOAA 2026 is not only in the competition days but also in the ability to create long-term inspiration for basic science education in Vietnam:
IOAA 2026 is an opportunity for students to get closer to astronomy and astrophysics, while expanding connections between scientists, educators and young talents. This is also a motivation for Phenikaa University to continue developing research, interdisciplinary training and contributing to building scientific human resources for the future," he said.
In particular, 2026 is also the year Phenikaa University officially starts training in Astrophysics and Space Data Science, a major that connects knowledge of physics, astronomy, information technology and data analysis.
Therefore, accompanying IOAA is not only an event organization task, but also associated with the strategic orientation in building a long-term research and training environment for the school in this field.
