Lira Student Selected to Represent Uganda at International Chemistry Olympiad in Russia

By Our Reporter

Solomon Atine Jr., from Bar Sub-county in Lira District, is celebrating a major academic milestone after being selected to represent Uganda at an international chemistry competition.

Atine, who studies at St Gracious Secondary School in Lira City, was chosen by the Ministry of Education and Sports to participate in the 60th International Mendeleev Chemistry Olympiad, scheduled to take place from April 15 to 23 in Moscow, Russia.

Expressing his excitement, Atine said he is ready for the challenge and eager to expand his knowledge and skills.

“I am happy for this opportunity, and I am ready for it with the expectation to learn more,” said Atine, who is currently studying Biology, Chemistry, and Mathematics.

His father, Tonny Ogwal Brain, expressed immense pride and gratitude to both God and the school for nurturing his son’s academic journey.

The school has a strong record in the competition. Last year, three of its students represented Uganda in the 59th edition of the Olympiad held in Brazil, where they emerged second in Africa after South Africa, according to the school principal, Martin Ojok Anyuru.

This year, two Ugandan students were selected: Atine from St Gracious Secondary School and another student from Bweranyangi Girls’ Senior Secondary School in Bushenyi.

Speaking during a ceremony held on Sunday, April 12, Dr. Andrew Odur, Director of Lira Regional Referral Hospital, emphasized the need for schools to support the government’s vision of promoting science education.

He noted that excellence in science and technology requires hard work, resilience, sacrifice, and a strong commitment to research and continuous learning.

“This is how schools can help realize the government’s vision—by restoring hope through science, which is highly rewarding both to society and the nation,” Dr. Odur said.

He further encouraged students to nurture their passion for science and pursue knowledge with empathy, noting that the world needs skilled and compassionate professionals.

Ojok Anyuru highlighted the importance of science in addressing modern challenges. He noted that the school’s recent academic success—where 25 students scored maximum points in the Uganda Advanced Certificate of Education exams, a first in the Lango sub-region—demonstrates their commitment to excellence, particularly in science subjects. He added that the school’s performance aligns