Depok, West Java, October 4, 2026 — For Kaindra Nadira Saidtama and Aiden Gracio, participating in the 23rd International Mathematics and Science Olympiad (IMSO) in 2026 was more than just a chance to compete. Behind their participation was a long process of learning, practicing, facing difficult problems, and finally daring to test their abilities at the international level.
Kaindra, a sixth-grade student at SDIT Bina Bangsa Sejahtera in Bogor City, who is taking the Science exam, said he had to undergo intensive practice tests during preparation. He also participated in online and offline coaching sessions and received support from his parents. Previously, Kaindra won a gold medal in the National Science Olympiad (OSN) in Science for elementary school. He said this experience helped him develop disciplined and regular study habits.
"I'm happy and proud," said Kaindra upon learning he was selected to represent Indonesia at IMSO-23. He also advised his friends who are interested in science but lack the confidence to participate in competitions to give it a try. "Try studying science or joining a competition. If you like it enough, give it a try," he said.
A similar story comes from Aiden Gracio, a sixth-grade student at Witama Nasional Plus Srikandi Elementary School in Pekanbaru who is participating in the mathematics field. To reach IMSO-23, Aiden underwent three stages of selection, from online to offline, which included practice and simulations. He also won a gold medal and the best overall OSN in elementary school mathematics.
When faced with a problem he finds difficult, Aiden chooses to work on a similar type of problem but with a lower level of difficulty. Once he understands the idea, he then develops it to solve more challenging problems. "Don't be afraid to try. The important thing is that you gain knowledge. Don't be afraid of the results, but just try to follow along so we can gain more knowledge," Aiden said.
The Indonesian Team Leader for IMSO-23, Muchammad Fachri, stated that the participants were outstanding students, some of whom were gold medalists at the National Science Olympiad (OSN). The selection process involved three stages: two online and one offline. Approximately 30 participants were selected, plus the OSN gold medalists, bringing the total coaching team to 63 participants: 32 in mathematics and 31 in science.
Fachri explained that the challenge for participants lies not only in mastering the material. Olympiad material is more difficult than school material. Participants are also required to understand and answer questions in English and undergo more than a week of quarantine away from their parents.
Amid these challenges, the participants' enthusiasm for learning was a source of pride. Participants received materials based on the syllabus from instructors from various institutions and Olympiad coaches. They demonstrated such enthusiasm in working on the questions that the coaching team needed to prepare extensive practice materials.
"My hope, and that of all of us on the Indonesian team, is that the participants achieve the best results at IMSO-23. From the entire process, from the selection stage to quarantine, we hope to win gold medals in both science and mathematics. Hopefully, there will also be participants who get the best overall, best theory, best exploration, or best experiment . We also hope that IMSO-23 will be one of the best events that produces champions from Indonesian teams," said Fachri.
The Minister of Primary and Secondary Education (Mendikdasmen), Abdul Mu'ti, said that this effort is in line with the Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education's program which is currently focusing on improving STEM ( Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics ) education.
"Through this event, we hope to foster a new generation of scientists, intelligent students who will not only excel in science and mathematics but also be prepared to become future national leaders. This also supports President Prabowo Subianto's priority of strengthening character education," he concluded.
Through IMSO-23, Kaindra, Aiden, and the other participants brought not only the hope of achieving success, but also learning experiences, the courage to face challenges, and the spirit to keep trying. For them, the competition became a space to increase their knowledge and develop their potential. *** (Author: Rayhan / Documentation: Nurlaili / Editor: Denty, Seno)
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