Bangkok: Students from Qatar Foundation schools secured multiple medals and awards across the Advanced and Intermediate categories at the World Mathematics Team Championship held in Thailand, reaffirming their strong presence on the international academic stage.
According to Qatar News Agency, this achievement marks QF's third consecutive participation in the prestigious global competition. A total of 26 students represented QF, with six students earning medals - one Silver and five Bronze - while the remaining 20 students received Merit Awards, which recognize strong and distinguished performance in international academic competitions.
The results highlight the strong emphasis that QF's Pre-University Education (PUE) schools place on mathematics and sciences as core pillars of academic excellence. Participation in the championship also provided students with a valuable opportunity to engage with peers from around the world, apply advanced problem-solving skills, and compete in a highly challenging learning environment.
Reflecting on his experience, Ismail Al Emadi, a grade 10 student at Qatar Academy Doha, part of QF's PUE, and a Bronze Medal winner in the Intermediate category, said: "Participating in the championship strengthened my interest in learning mathematics and continuing to explore the subject. While it may not be my primary choice for future study, it remains an area of strong personal interest."
Al Emadi added, "Earning a medal this year was a satisfying achievement and brought a sense of relief after the pressure I experienced throughout the competition. Although I was slightly disappointed not to secure a second Silver Medal, winning the Bronze Medal in Thailand was a true reflection of how much I have progressed and the effort I have invested over the past years."
He explained that the greatest difficulty was not the questions themselves, but managing the psychological pressure associated with high expectations. Focusing on the value of the overall experience and taking pride in how far he had come helped him overcome those challenges.
Al Emadi also highlighted the pride of representing Qatar and QF, saying, "Representing Qatar and QF at this championship was an inspiring and deeply meaningful experience, from arriving in Thailand wearing the QF sash, to donning traditional attire, and finally raising the Qatari flag on stage while receiving my medal. It was the proudest moment of the competition for me."
Al Emadi advised students aspiring to take part in international academic competitions not to place excessive pressure on themselves over results, emphasizing the importance of recognizing effort and viewing such events as opportunities for learning and cultural exchange.
Atiksh Shetty, a grade 8 student at Qatar Academy Sidra, part of QF's PUE, and also a Bronze Medal winner in the Intermediate category, shared, "My participation in the championship in Thailand was a rich and rewarding experience that combined academic challenge with meaningful learning beyond the classroom."
Shetty continued, "Winning the Bronze Medal for the second consecutive year was a moment of great pride, as it reflected the confidence placed in me by my school, QF, my country, and my family. The experience further strengthened my passion for mathematics and science and encouraged me to continue participating in international academic competitions."
He noted that while competing at an international level involved considerable pressure, strong preparation, teamwork, and sustained focus helped him navigate the challenge. The championship enhanced his problem-solving and collaborative skills, while reinforcing the importance of teamwork and mutual support among students.