Japan’s Future Biology Olympians Emerge from JBO Kumamoto 2024

On August 28th, 2024, the Japan Biology Olympiad (JBO) Kumamoto 2024 Award Ceremony took place at the 100th Anniversary Hall of Kumamoto University. The event was graced by distinguished figures, including Kumamoto University President Hisao Ogawa, Kumamoto Prefecture Governor Takashi Kimura, Kumamoto City Deputy Mayor Masahiko Fukami, CEO of KM Biologics Co., Ltd. Toshiaki Nagasato, and Vice Chair of JBO Noboru Sasagawa, together with student participants from across Japan to celebrate the achievements of the nation's brightest young minds in biology.

The ceremony honored students for their exceptional performance in the Olympiad, awarding gold, silver, and bronze medals, along with special prizes. Notably, twelve outstanding students were selected as candidates to represent Japan at the 36th International Biology Olympiad, set to take place in July 2025 in the Philippines.

The Japan Biology Olympiad is a prestigious nationwide competition aimed at students under 20 who have not yet entered university. The competition consists of preliminary rounds, a final round, and a selection process for the International Biology Olympiad team. This year, the preliminary round in July tested participants on theoretical biology, with approximately 80 advancing to the final round hosted by Kumamoto University. Under the leadership of Professor Shinichiro Sawa, Chairperson of the Organizing Committee and Director of the International Research Center for Agricultural & Environmental Biology (IRCAEB), the final round was held from August 25th to 28th. This intensive four-day, three-night camp included both practical and theoretical exams, pushing students to demonstrate their full potential.

Following the Kumamoto 2024 Olympiad, the twelve selected candidates will undergo specialized training in preparation for the final representative selection exam. From this group, four exceptional students and two alternates will be chosen to represent Japan on the global stage. These future Olympians will continue to refine their skills through lectures, experiments led by university professors, and interactive Q&A sessions, ensuring they are well-prepared for the upcoming international competition.

The Japan Biology Olympiad Kumamoto 2024 not only successfully identified Japan’s future representatives for the International Biology Olympiad but also provided a platform for young biology enthusiasts to deepen their passion, forge new friendships, and engage in meaningful scientific exchange.