China and Taiwan led the competition with five golds, followed by the Republic of Korea, India, the US and Vietnam, winning four golds each. This is the first time Vietnam has achieved the best result since it took part in IPhO competitions in 1982.
IPhO 2008 attracted 376 students from 82 countries and territories competing in theory and practice tests.
Addressing the awards ceremony, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Education and Training Nguyen Thien Nhan highlighted the students' efforts in the competition, saying “Hopefully, you will try your best to become famous scientists to contribute to your countries and world peace”.
He added that international competitions such as IPhO 2008 will lay foundations for all competitors’ future success.
Professor Maija Ahtee, IPhO acting chairperson, expressed her deepest gratitude to the organisers for holding such a successful competition.
“They have made this event the most enjoyable and memorable to all of us,” she said.
She also thanked some 600 Vietnamese volunteer students for assisting the participating delegations during the competition.
At the ceremony, Vietnam handed over the torch to Mexico which will host the 40th IPhO in Merida city from July 12-19, 2009.
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