Jeddah: The International Nuclear Science Olympiad (INSO) 2026 kicked off today in Jeddah, marking the beginning of its third edition with the participation of 120 students and scientific specialists from 19 countries. Prince Saud bin Mishaal bin Abdulaziz, Deputy Governor of Makkah Region, is sponsoring the opening ceremony, highlighting the Kingdom's commitment to scientific excellence and international collaboration. According to Union of OIC News Agencies, the Olympiad is organized through a partnership between the Ministry of Education, the King Abdulaziz and His Companions Foundation for Giftedness and Creativity (Mawhiba), and the King Abdullah City for Atomic and Renewable Energy. King Abdulaziz University will host the competitions, which are scheduled to run from August 3 to August 9, 2026. The event, approved by the International Atomic Energy Agency in 2024, serves as a global platform for students to exchange knowledge in nuclear science and its peaceful applications. The Kingdom's involvement with the International Nuclear Science Olympiad began in 2024 with the inaugural event in the Philippines, followed by the second edition in Malaysia in 2025, where it achieved five international awards, including a silver medal and three bronze medals. This year's hosting of the Olympiad underscores Saudi Arabia's role as a key player in international scientific competitions and its dedication to nurturing national talents in advanced scientific fields. The Kingdom's successful history of hosting international scientific events, such as the International Chemistry Olympiad in Riyadh in 2024 and the Asian Physics Olympiad in the Eastern Province in 2025, further enhances its reputation as a global hub for scientific collaboration. The Olympiad provides a competitive environment that fosters the development of talented individuals and promotes scientific cooperation at an international level.