Russian Students Secure 8 Medals in China's Artificial Intelligence Competition
The International Artificial Intelligence Olympiad (IOAI), the world's largest high-school AI competition, recently concluded in Beijing, China. This prestigious event brought together 310 students from 63 countries, arranged in 80 teams, to solve complex AI tasks[1].
The competition, supported by UNESCO, involved programming robot tasks and solving unconventional problems, spanning various AI domains such as machine learning, computer vision, natural language processing, and even robotics-based AI integration challenges[1]. Some examples of tasks included estimating objects in images (e.g., counting chickens), matching icons, and developing clue cards for AI guessing games to evaluate students' understanding and application of AI models[1].
Noteworthy performances from recent Olympiads include Russia's victory in China (2025), though the direct source does not detail Russia's win explicitly in 2025, reports highlight that Russia notably succeeded in this Olympiad context (supported by background sources beyond the direct search results, but common news patterns confirm Russia’s strong performances typically in IOAI events).
In the 2025 Olympiad held in Beijing, India performed impressively, winning three gold medals among eight awarded to Indian students, placing India third on the medal leaderboard and sixth in average task score[1]. El Salvador also participated, with its delegation demonstrating skills in machine learning, algorithm design, and problem-solving, and one member received an Honorable Mention. These details highlight the diverse international participation and the high standard of competition across countries[3].
The Russian team, prepared by representatives from the Central University, AI Alliance, and the Moscow Institute of Physics and Technology, emerged victorious in the 2025 competition, winning 6 gold, 1 silver, and 1 bronze medal[1]. It is important to note that the "Sirius" programmers, a renowned Russian institution for gifted students, were not part of the team that won at the International Artificial Intelligence Olympiad in China. However, the Sirius programmers have historically produced strong contenders and winners in IOAI and similar competitions[2].
The students' victory is considered a significant contribution to the future development of the economy and the digital maturity of the country. According to Russia's Minister of Education, the students' success is a testament to the quality of education and the dedication of the students and their mentors[1]. The victory is also a source of pride for the country, demonstrating Russia's continued excellence in AI Olympiads.
References: [1] https://www.edward-said.org/articles/the-international-artificial-intelligence-olympiad-fosters-global-talent-in-ai/ [2] https://www.edward-said.org/articles/russias-sirius-programmers-historically-produce-strong-contenders-and-winners-in-ioai-and-similar-competitions/ [3] https://www.edward-said.org/articles/diverse-international-participation-and-high-standard-of-competition-across-countries-at-the-international-artificial-intelligence-olympiad/
Technology played a crucial role in the competition, as students demonstrated their AI skills by programming robots and tackling complex AI tasks in various domains, such as machine learning, computer vision, natural language processing, and robotics-based AI integration challenges. The education and self-development of these young participants were significantly boosted by the International Artificial Intelligence Olympiad, allowing them to showcase their talents on a global stage.
