Ulaanbaatar, May 19, 2023 /MONTSAME/. Mongolia is set to host XXIII Asian Physics Olympiad in Ulaanbaatar on May 21-29 under the auspices of the President of Mongolia. In relation to this significant event, MONTSAME, the Mongolian National News engaged in an interview with Academician J. Davaasambuu, the President of the Mongolian Physics Society. Our conversation centered on the meticulous planning and organization required for the successful implementation of the Olympiad.

The Asian Physics Olympiad is set to take place in Mongolia for the second time. Could you elaborate on the preparation work?

     It is important to acknowledge that the primary objectives of the Olympiad are to assess the quality of physics education in Asian nations, provide support to students with a keen interest in physics, and showcase the cultural heritage of the hosting country. Thus, the successful execution of this event entails the collaboration of numerous individuals beyond the realm of physicists. In order to orchestrate the Olympiad, physics educators from the Mongolian State University, the Mongolian University of Education, the Mongolian University of Science and Technology, as well as researchers from the Institute of Physics and Chemistry of the Academy of Sciences, collectively conducted comprehensive physics training programs in schools across all provinces and districts throughout the year. A dedicated team of 10-15 experts organized a knowledge day, featuring experimental demonstrations, with the aim of addressing any deficiencies in physics education, empowering teachers, and fostering a deeper understanding of the field of physics.

    We consider it a tremendous privilege to have been selected as the host country for the Olympiad. Mongolia previously had the distinction of organizing the Asian Physics Olympiad in 2008. The forthcoming Olympiad will be the second of its kind, under the auspices of the Ministry of Education and Science, the General Department of Education, as well as the dedicated involvement of over 100 esteemed scientists from the Institute of Physics and Chemistry of the Academy of Sciences, and the Department of Physics at the National University of Science and Technology of Mongolia, alongside the collective contributions of all physicists in the country.

    Within this framework, our commitment to the field of physics extends throughout the entire year, immersing ourselves in its principles and practices. As an illustrative example, our team has developed an online physics course tailored for secondary school students. Through collaborative efforts, the most accomplished teachers have diligently prepared 200 lectures and accompanying assignments. These resources will be made accessible to teachers, students, and individuals with an interest in physics, serving as a valuable reference guide for anyone seeking to deepen their understanding of this captivating field of study.

 I have been informed that the questions for XXIII Asian Physics Olympiad were formulated by a team of Mongolian scientists. Generally speaking, is there a dedicated team responsible for creating the questions for the Olympiad?

    The host country of the Asian Physics Olympiad is entrusted with the task of developing its own problems. Due to its confidential nature, five individuals, under the supervision of one coordinator, were appointed to create the five problems. To ensure accountability, all team members signed a liability agreement. The organization of a fair and esteemed competition is of utmost importance. Currently, three theoretical problems have been finalized, two test problems have been designed, and 600 laboratory experiments have been commissioned and prepared. Additionally, 150 specialized equipment pieces have been procured internationally to facilitate the necessary measurements. Unlike sporting events where athletes are invited to participate, the Olympiad involves a comprehensive approach where the host country is responsible for the development and execution of policies and its organization. Over the course of 23 iterations, 12 countries have taken turns hosting the Asian Physics Olympiad. Our country's physicists have garnered significant recognition in Asia, which is why Mongolia has been selected to organize this edition. It is crucial that the policies of the Olympiad are innovative, unprecedented, and display a high degree of creativity.

May I inquire about the number of countries whose scientists will participate in the Olympiad? Is there a Nobel Prize laureate who has been invited to deliver a lecture?

     The Asian Physics Olympiad attracts talented physicists from various nations, with a notable presence expected from Romania, Pacific countries, and Australia. The event will witness the participation of approximately 200 students, accompanied by over 100 teachers and professors, representing 28 countries. Distinguished attendees will include the chairman of the Asian Physics Olympiad committee, esteemed professors from Taiwan University, as well as a substantial delegation from Vietnam. Additionally, around 40 individuals will attend the Olympiad as observers, enriching the academic atmosphere with their insights and observations.

     On the 27th of this month, we are honored to announce that Konstantin Sergeevich Novoselov, the distinguished recipient of the 2010 Nobel Prize, will deliver a keynote speech entitled "Materials of the Future."

    This remarkable opportunity serves as an enlightening experience for the Olympiad participants. Each team participating in the Olympiad will consist of eight students and two teachers. As the host country, we have the privilege of fielding two teams. Among the team members, two students have been selected from Ulaanbaatar City, while the remaining six have been chosen from rural areas. Historically, only students from the city have participated in the Asian Physics Olympiad. However, this year, in an endeavor to support local students and broaden the Olympiad's impact, a dedicated training program was organized. As a result, six students who achieved exceptional performances and secured top positions in the State Physics Olympiad were selected for participation. The teaching staff from the National University of Mongolia are diligently assembling and preparing the team for the upcoming competition.