2025 Press release #2
Igniting AI Dreams, Gathering Global Wisdom 2025 International Olympiad in Artificial Intelligence Grandly Opens in Beijing
August 4, 2025, Beijing — A grand technological event gathering global AI youth, the 2nd International Olympiad in Artificial Intelligence (IOAI), officially commenced today at Beijing National Day School.
The International Olympiad in Artificial Intelligence was established on the initiative of Bulgaria, which hosted the inaugural edition in August 2024. Endorsed by the President of Bulgaria and Ministry of Education of Bulgaria, IOAI was developed in collaboration with leading global experts from institutions such as MIT, Oxford University, University of Copenhagen, and Mohamed bin Zayed University of Artificial Intelligence (MBZUAI). As the first high-level academic competition in AI for secondary school students, IOAI established a rigorous academic structure and joined the prestigious family of International Science Olympiads.
IOAI is a STEM competition designed to inspire, develop, and showcase the world’s most promising students in the field of artificial intelligence. Each year, the Olympiad focuses on different domains across the AI landscape. As an event dedicated to artificial intelligence, IOAI is also committed to engaging with the broader public on ethical issues and the future of AI, fostering responsible dialogue beyond the competition.
The first edition, held in Bulgaria, welcomed participants from over 30 countries and territories across six continents, with more than 40 teams—setting a record for the highest number of participating countries and territories in the inaugural edition of a science Olympiad.
The 2nd edition is endorsed by UNESCO and authorized to use its emblem, this prestigious event hosts 77 teams from 61 countries and regions, along with distinguished guests, embarking together on a journey exploring the future frontiers of artificial intelligence.
All teams at the 2024 IOAI opening ceremony.
At 8:00 a.m., excitement filled the air outside the Aspiration Building at Beijing National Day School. Students from around the world eagerly took photos with new friends, capturing smiles and aspirations that transcended borders.
Inside the venue, a promotional video of Haidian District vividly showcased this vibrant hub of technological innovation and its unique international appeal.
Teams seated before the start of the Opening Ceremony at IOAI 2025.
At 8:30 a.m., the ceremony officially began with delightful performances by the Beijing National Day School’s Chinese Orchestra playing “Fair Flowers Under Full Moon” and “Full of Joy.” Student hosts Pan Leyang and Li Qiushi greeted guests in Chinese and English.
All attendees solemnly stood as the national anthem of the People’s Republic of China played, with the national flag proudly displayed on the screen, symbolizing respect for this international gathering and hopes for peace, exchange, and shared success.
Beijing National Day School’s Chinese Orchestra.
IOAI is not only a competitive arena for young minds but also a prestigious platform for visionary dialogue on future technology.
In his welcoming remarks, Yue Li, Executive Deputy District Mayor of Haidian District Government, noted Haidian’s position as the core zone of Beijing’s international science and technology innovation center, boasting a leading AI industry ecosystem and systematic talent development framework. Its open and inclusive environment, alongside abundant international resources, has made Haidian a favored destination for global students. The organizer, Beijing National Day School, embodies Haidian’s principles of openness, inclusivity, and innovation.
Yue Li, Executive Deputy District Mayor of Haidian District Government speaking at IOAI 2025.
Peter Dilov, the Minister of Economy and Industry of Bulgaria, and Elena Marinova, Chair of the IOAI International Committee, representing the founding nation, reflected on IOAI’s founding vision. They emphasized the significance of international collaboration and nurturing young AI talent, praised China’s meticulous preparations, and wished success for the event. Together with Rositsa Dekova from the International Committee, they presented the “IOAI Outstanding Contribution Award” to Antonio Carlan, a Brazilian member of the committee, recognizing his exceptional contributions.
Peter Dilov, Elena Marinova and Rositsa Dekova presenting the Bulgarian Award for Outstanding Contribution to Antonio Carlan at the Opening Ceremony of IOAI 2025.
You Sen, Deputy Director-General and Secretary of the Party Branch of the Department of Basic Education, Ministry of Education of China, delivered congratulatory remarks on behalf of Vice Minister Wang Jiayi. He highlighted China’s emphasis on AI-enabled education, pointing to the recent release of the “K-12 AI General Education Guide” and “China’s Smart Education White Paper,” outlining China’s proposals for an inclusive education ecosystem and global cooperation. He noted IOAI’s role as a valuable platform fostering youth innovation, understanding, mutual trust, and building a shared future in the AI era.
You Sen, Deputy Director-General and Secretary of the Party Branch of the Department of Basic Education, Ministry of Education of China, speaking at IOAI 2025.
Yu Yingjie, Member of the Standing Committee of the CPC Beijing Municipal Committee and Secretary of its Education Work Committee, delivered a speech and declared the event officially open. Beijing is committed to establishing itself as a global hub for AI innovation, industry, and talent, leading the nation in terms of enterprise presence and computing power resources. Additionally, Beijing aims to build a comprehensive AI talent development system spanning all educational levels, emphasizing the improvement of educational frameworks, strengthened research collaboration, and deepened international cooperation to create a globally competitive innovation ecosystem. Hosting IOAI in Beijing, specifically at Beijing National Day School, highlights the international community’s recognition of China’s robust capabilities in AI education and innovation.
Yu Yingjie, Member of the Standing Committee of the CPC Beijing Municipal Committee and Secretary of its Education Work Committee, speaking at IOAI 2025.
The most exhilarating moment of the ceremony was the parade of participating teams. Accompanied by stirring music, Bulgaria, the founding nation, entered first, followed by delegations introduced according to the stroke order of their Chinese names. The UAE delegation, host of the next IOAI, entered second to last, with the host Chinese delegation concluding the parade amid enthusiastic applause. This cultural integration symbolized a united declaration of global youth collaborating for the future.
To uphold the fairness and integrity of the academic event, Yova Kemenchedzhieva, Secretary-General of the IOAI International Scientific Committee, and Jiang Huikang, a contestant from the Chinese team and student of Beijing National Day School, solemnly pledged on behalf of all judges and contestants, expressing reverence for knowledge, adherence to rules, and commitment to the Olympic spirit.
Zheng Zijie, representative of the IOAI International Scientific Committee and Head of AI Curriculum at Beijing National Day School, explained the competition rules and highlighted key points, encouraging participants to showcase their talents and sportsmanship.
Jiang Huikang’s, a contestant from the Chinese team and student of Beijing National Day School, pledge at IOAI 2025.
Concluding the ceremony, IOAI’s mascot, “Z-Loong,” debuted as a digital avatar on-screen, accompanied by the original composition “Hello, Z-Loong!” by student He Juhuan. Immediately afterward, a lively Z-Loong character took the stage, warmly greeting young AI enthusiasts from around the world amid enthusiastic cheers.
This creative unveiling showcased the ingenuity and passion of Beijing National Day School students, marking the official launch of IOAI 2025—a youthful stage merging technological dreams and humanistic values.
Z-Loong on the stage of the Opening Ceremony at IOAI 2025.
In the coming days, young minds worldwide will engage in intellectual exchange and technological competition, cultivating innovation, friendship, and collective progress. Let us anticipate the sparks of wisdom and wish the 2nd IOAI great success!
Hosted by: Beijing National Day School (BNDS) and ITCCC
Under the patronage of: UNESCO
Academically guided by: Zhongguancun Academy, and AI for Science Institute, Beijing
Guided by: Beijing Municipal Education Commission, Beijing Municipal Science and Technology Commission, and Haidian District People’s Government of Beijing Municipality
Co-organized by: NOAI Organizing Committee
Industry partners include:
Local Platinum Sponsors: Huawei, Taobao and Tmall Group
Technology partners: Volcano Engine, DP Technology, Galbot (加尔博特), and NetEase Youdao.
International partners include:
Global Diamond Sponsor: IMC Group
Global Gold Sponsor: Mohamed bin Zayed University of Artificial Intelligence (MBZUAI)
Local Gold Sponsor: Jane Street
Local Silver Sponsor (GAITE Program): TURING
For media inquiries, please contact: media@ioai-official.org