The Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science and Technology, The University of the West Indies (The UWI), St. Augustine Campus, is pleased to announce that four outstanding secondary school students have been selected to represent Trinidad and Tobago at the 58th International Chemistry Olympiad (IChO 2026), to be held in Tashkent, Uzbekistan, from July 5–14, 2026.
The International Chemistry Olympiad is the world’s premier chemistry competition for secondary school students, bringing together more than 350 of the brightest young chemists from over 90 countries. Participants compete in rigorous theoretical and practical examinations that test their scientific knowledge, analytical thinking, laboratory skills, and problem-solving abilities. Beyond the competition, the Olympiad fosters scientific collaboration, cultural exchange, and lifelong international friendships among future leaders in science.
Representing Trinidad and Tobago at IChO 2026 are:
- Reginald Mohammed – Upper 6
- Soren Narine – Lower 6
- Leon Copliah – Upper 6
- Zeeshaan Lall – Form 5
The students have undergone months of intensive preparation through the Trinidad and Tobago Chemistry Olympiad (TTChO) programme, coordinated by the Department of Chemistry at The UWI, St. Augustine. Their training has included advanced university-level chemistry, laboratory practical sessions, problem-solving workshops, and mock examinations, equipping them with the knowledge and skills required for this highly demanding international competition.
The national team has been trained under the guidance of Head Mentors:
- Dr. Denise Beckles
- Dr. Sherwyn Millette
They have been supported by a dedicated team of academic staff and laboratory technicians whose expertise and commitment have been instrumental in delivering the national training programme.
The Trinidad and Tobago Chemistry Olympiad was established through a partnership between The UWI, St. Augustine Campus, and the Ministry of Education to identify, nurture, and develop exceptionally talented secondary school students with a passion for chemistry. Since making its competitive debut at the International Chemistry Olympiad in 2021, Trinidad and Tobago has continued to strengthen the programme through expanded laboratory training, enhanced theoretical instruction, and closer collaboration between secondary schools and the University.
Participation in the Olympiad provides students with an unparalleled opportunity to engage with the global scientific community while developing skills that extend well beyond the classroom. Many former Olympians have gone on to pursue degrees and careers in chemistry, medicine, engineering, and other STEM disciplines, making the programme an important investment in the nation’s future scientific and technological capacity.
As the team prepares to depart for Uzbekistan, the Faculty of Science and Technology and the Department of Chemistry invite the University community and the wider national community to celebrate and support these exceptional young scientists as they proudly represent Trinidad and Tobago on the international stage.
We wish the team every success at the 58th International Chemistry Olympiad and look forward to celebrating their achievements upon their return.