Uruguayan Student Claims Bronze at Prestigious Chemistry Olympiad in Dubai
In a display of extraordinary academic prowess, Santiago Caussi, a student at the Instituto Tecnológico Superior del Buceo (ITS Buceo) in Uruguay, earned a bronze medal at the 57th International Chemistry Olympiad, held in Dubai from July 5 to 14. The event, which is regarded as one of the most esteemed global science competitions, brought together 360 high school students from 90 countries, all of whom demonstrated exceptional knowledge and passion for chemical sciences.
Caussi competed as part of Uruguay’s national delegation, having previously showcased his abilities at the Ibero-American Chemistry Olympiad in Costa Rica, where he claimed a silver medal earlier in 2024. His success in Dubai continues a streak of international recognition and highlights his potential in the field of industrial chemistry.
Accompanying him on the trip was fellow Uruguayan student Melina Betzla, from High School No. 1 in Mercedes, Soriano. Betzla distinguished herself as the top-performing student during national selection processes and received advanced mentorship through the Faculty of Chemistry at the University of the Republic (Udelar). Both Uruguayan representatives progressed through intense rounds of the National and Departmental Chemistry Olympiads and participated in weeks of preparation before the international event.
Their achievements were made possible with the unwavering support of their dedicated mentors, teachers Virginia Aldabalde and Natalia Álvarez, who guided the students throughout their journey, from initial selection to global competition.
At this year’s Olympiad, the gold medal was awarded to Damyan Ivanov, a 10th-grade student at Sofia Mathematical Secondary School (SMG) in Bulgaria. Ivanov’s triumph reflects the Olympiad’s highly competitive environment and underscores the level of academic excellence required to excel on the international stage.
The success of Caussi and Betzla not only brings pride to their nation but also serves as a reminder of the rising standards of Latin American youth in global academic arenas. Their performance is proof of the value of scientific education and institutional support in nurturing future innovators and researchers.
