International Greenwich Olympiad 2024: A celebration of innovation and cultural exchange
The International Greenwich Olympiad (IGO 2024) concluded on June 15, 2024, in a resounding celebration of student innovation and international collaboration. This third annual event was organised and sponsored by North London Grammar School and saw 449 students from 134 schools across 48 countries come together to showcase more than 300 groundbreaking projects in categories ranging from Environmental Science and Engineering to Computer Science and Art.
The festivities began on June 10 with a grand Opening Ceremony held at the historic Oxford Town Hall. This iconic Victorian Gothic building provided an elegant backdrop as students, adorned in traditional costumes, proudly displayed their national flags. The event was graced by esteemed guests such as Mrs Moira Darlington, Deputy Lieutenant of Oxfordshire; Cllr Mike Rowley, Lord Mayor of Oxford; and Anne Watson, Professor at Oxford University.
On June 11, the competition shifted to Queen Mary University of London for the Exhibition and Judging Day. The Octagon Hall buzzed with excitement as students set up and presented their innovative projects to a panel of over 50 judges, comprising industry professionals and academics. The judges were deeply impressed by the quality and creativity of the entries.
Throughout the eight-day event, participants engaged in a variety of activities designed to promote cross-cultural understanding and collaboration. Highlights included a vibrant Cultural Night, a lively BBQ Day, and memorable excursions to some of London's and Oxford's most iconic landmarks. In London, students explored the British Museum, Buckingham Palace, and Madame Tussauds, among other attractions. In Oxford, they enjoyed a picturesque river cruise and visited the historic Christ Church.
The event reached its zenith at the grand Award Ceremony, where outstanding projects were recognized with gold, silver, and bronze medals, as well as certificates. The ceremony featured distinguished guests such as Cllr Salim Chowdhury, Mayor of Harrow; Dr Grace Boakye Dankwa; and Naa Dedei Teeth, representatives from the Ghana High Commission UK, who presented the awards to the winners.
IGO 2024 left a lasting impression and created unforgettable moments for everyone involved. The event was a resounding success, thanks in part to the inspiring contributions from the Advisory Board members, judges, supervisors, parents, and participants. Here are some of their most memorable quotes:
"I am certain that our young Olympians will forever cherish the memories of times they spent together in London." - Dr. John Grainger, IGO Advisory Board Chair
"This was a real exhibition of talents and genius minds. I was a judge of 'Inspiring Innovation' projects (engineering), and oh boy – I came out of the building very inspired!" - Nudzejma Softic, IGO2024 Judge
"The International Greenwich Olympiad was a celebration of knowledge and innovation for our students, fostering international camaraderie and cultural exchange. Winning bronze and silver medals boosted their self-confidence and showcased their capabilities. It was a truly transformative experience!" - Feruza Tuychieva, Principal of Canadian School of Tashkent, Uzbekistan
Encouraged by the uplifting responses and the outstanding success of IGO 2024, plans are already in progress for an even more extraordinary event next summer. The International Greenwich Olympiad will continue to be a dynamic stage for young innovators to present their talents, promoting teamwork and inspiring groundbreaking achievements in innovation.
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