The 2024 International Biology Olympiad – Hong Kong Contest (IBO-HKC) is fast approaching, offering a golden opportunity for Hong Kong’s brightest young biologists to showcase their skills and compete on an international level. Here’s everything you need to know about this prestigious event and how to get involved.
Key Details of the Contest
- Date: November 10, 2024 (Sunday)
- Time: 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. (Participants should arrive by 11:00 a.m.)
- Format: Face-to-face competition
- Venue: Yasumoto International Academic Park and Wu Ho Man Yuen Building, CUHK (to be confirmed)
Nomination Process
Each secondary school in Hong Kong can nominate up to five students from Secondary Six or below. Nominees must be born on or after July 1, 2005, and still enrolled in secondary school during the 2024/25 academic year. Schools should submit their nominations via the HKAGE website by September 13, 2024, noon.
Self-nomination is also possible from September 16 to September 20, 2024, provided the school quota isn’t filled. Applications will be processed on a first-come, first-served basis, and self-nominated students must meet the same eligibility criteria as those nominated by schools.
Competition Format
The competition consists of a two-hour written test featuring 50 multiple-choice questions, available in both English and Chinese. The test will cover a range of topics based on the Secondary 4-6 Biology Curriculum and Assessment Guide, with additional questions on advanced topics like Bioinformatics and Developmental Biology. The test is designed to challenge students’ understanding and application of biological concepts, making it an excellent preparation for future academic endeavors.
Awards and Recognition
Participants will compete for individual awards (Gold, Silver, Bronze, and Honourable Mentions) and team awards (Best Schools Awards and Honourable Mention for Schools). The three highest-scoring students from each school will contribute to the team’s overall score.
Pathway to the International Stage
Top performers in the Hong Kong contest will have the chance to advance to the IBO Training Programme – Phase I. This program prepares students for potential selection as Hong Kong representatives at the International Biology Olympiad. Awardees who successfully complete the training may also apply for student membership at the Hong Kong Academy for Gifted Education.
Important Dates to Remember
- Nomination Deadline: September 13, 2024
- Self-Nomination Window: September 16-20, 2024
- Results Announcement: October 10, 2024
- Prize-giving and Training Programme Announcement: December 4, 2024
The Hong Kong Biology Olympiad is not just a competition; it’s a stepping stone towards greater academic achievements and recognition in the field of biology. Whether you’re a student eager to test your knowledge or a teacher guiding young talent, the 2024 IBO-HKC promises to be an enriching experience. For more details, visit the HKAGE website or contact their Talent Development Division.
Get ready to dive deep into the world of biology and take the first step towards representing Hong Kong on an international stage!
Full details can be found at https://www.hkage.edu.hk/en-us/article/1477.
