From 9 to 16 August 2026, Tashkent will host the International Olympiad in Informatics (IOI) for the first time. Recognized as one of the world’s most prestigious intellectual competitions, the IOI brings together outstanding high school students to compete in programming and algorithmic problem-solving.
Ucell is proud to be one of the sponsors of IOI 2026. By supporting the Olympiad, the company continues its commitment to initiatives aimed at advancing information technology, digital education, and Uzbekistan’s technological potential.
Uzbekistan was awarded the right to host the International Olympiad in Informatics in 2023 following a decision by the IOI International Committee. This year, 745 participants from 97 countries have registered for the competition. Including accompanying guests, the total number of attendees is expected to reach 800–900 people.
Representatives from countries renowned for their excellence in computer science and programming – including the United States, China, Japan, Germany, the United Kingdom, and South Korea – will gather in Tashkent. For eight days, Uzbekistan’s capital will become an international hub where young programmers, coaches, and experts from around the world can connect and exchange ideas.
Hosting IOI 2026 in Uzbekistan carries special symbolic significance. The world’s brightest young programmers will gather in the homeland of the great scholar Muhammad al-Khwarizmi, whose name gave rise to the term “algorithm”. Today, the country’s rich scientific heritage continues through the development of modern digital technologies, IT education, and a new generation of technology professionals.
From the First Medals to a Home Olympiad
Uzbekistan first participated in the International Olympiad in Informatics in 2015. Between 2015 and 2025, the national team competed in the Olympiad 11 times, winning one silver medal, four bronze medals, and four honorable mentions.
The team’s performance has improved steadily over the years. In 2023, Uzbek students won two bronze medals, while at IOI 2025 in Bolivia, the national team earned the country’s first-ever silver medal, along with another bronze.
Eight Students to Represent Uzbekistan
Preparation of Uzbekistan’s national team for IOI 2026 has been underway since November 2025. With the support of international experts from Kazakhstan, Poland, and Romania, nearly ten intensive training camps were organized. Participants strengthened their algorithmic thinking, advanced problem-solving abilities, and competitive programming skills.
A total of 100 students from across Uzbekistan took part in the training camps. Following the national selection process, the country’s eight strongest contestants were chosen to represent Uzbekistan.
The first team consists of Jakhongir Shoh Avazkhonov, Timur Kadirbergenov, Jakhonali Haydaraliyev, and Ulugbek Rakhmatullayev.
The second team includes Sardor Salimov, Humoyun Abduraupov, Ulugbek Kamalov, and Ravshan Rakhmiddinov.
The team represents Namangan and Navoi regions, the Republic of Karakalpakstan, and the city of Tashkent. The participants study at Presidential Schools, the Muhammad al-Khwarizmi School, Westminster Lyceum, and the Tashkent University of Information Technologies (TUIT) Academic Lyceum.
The main events of IOI 2026 will take place at the CAEx Exhibition Complex. In addition to the competition itself, the eight-day program includes scientific, educational, and cultural activities, as well as sightseeing tours.
Hosting the International Olympiad in Informatics for the first time marks a significant milestone for Uzbekistan’s technology and education community. IOI 2026 will provide young programmers with an opportunity to compete alongside the world’s best students, exchange knowledge and experience, and discover new opportunities for professional growth in the field of information technology.
For Ucell, supporting IOI 2026 is an opportunity to contribute to an environment where young talents can unlock their potential, acquire new knowledge, and become part of the global technology community. By supporting educational and technological initiatives such as this, the company continues to foster the development of the IT sector and strengthen Uzbekistan’s digital future.