
A photo of Saudi student Latifa Al-Ghannam tops the ISEF cover
In a new national and international achievement added to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia's record of successes, a photograph of Saudi student Latifa Al-Ghannam at the Intel International Science and Engineering Fair (ISEF) in Arizona, USA. This exceptional recognition did not come about by chance, but rather as the culmination of a distinguished career. Latifa has won consecutive awards for three consecutive years at this global scientific event, making her an icon of success and inspiration for Saudi and Arab youth.
History of the ISEF exhibition and Saudi participation
The International Science and Engineering Fair (ISEF) is the world’s largest pre-college science competition, bringing together thousands of talented students from over 80 countries annually to compete and showcase their scientific research and innovations in diverse fields including engineering, medicine, technology, and environmental science. The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia participates regularly and actively in this fair, represented by the King Abdulaziz and His Companions Foundation for Giftedness and Creativity (Mawhiba) and the Ministry of Education. A select group of male and female students are chosen after passing through a series of rigorous local qualifying rounds within the National Olympiad for Scientific Creativity.
The importance of the achievement and its local impact
Displaying the image of Saudi student Latifa Al-Ghannam on the facade of the ISEF building carries profound significance that transcends mere individual recognition. Locally, this achievement embodies the success of the Saudi Vision 2030 goals, which prioritize human capital development, supporting talented and innovative individuals, and empowering Saudi women in the fields of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). Latifa has demonstrated that sustained investment in education and nurturing young minds yields remarkable results, raising the Kingdom's profile on the international stage and laying the foundation for a generation capable of leading the knowledge economy.
The regional and international impact of Latifa Al-Ghannam's excellence
Regionally, this achievement is a source of pride for the entire Arab world, demonstrating the ability of Arab youth to compete and excel in the most prestigious international scientific competitions. Internationally, Latifa Al-Ghannam's continued excellence for three consecutive years reflects the quality and depth of scientific research produced by Saudi students, reinforcing the Kingdom's position as a leading regional center for innovation and scientific research, and attracting the attention of universities and research institutions worldwide to recruit these exceptional national talents.
Extensive media coverage and national celebration
Local and international media outlets covered this significant event. In this context, the Saudi news channel Al-Ekhbariya broadcast a video report via its X platform, in which correspondent Hamad bin Hussein conveyed the details of this achievement from the heart of the event in Arizona, documenting the moment Latifa Al-Ghannam's image was displayed on the building's facade and highlighting the feelings of pride and elation that swept through Saudi Arabia.
From Arizona, USA... A photo of student Latifa Al-Ghannam is displayed atop the ISEF building after she won awards for three consecutive years.
Details with our correspondent Hamad Bin Hussein. pic.twitter.com/kz5c0Uvu5f— Al Ekhbariya TV (@alekhbariyatv) May 15, 2026



