Sanjana Philo Chacko, a Class 12 student from Thiruvananthapuram, has achieved a silver medal at the European Girls’ Mathematical Olympiad 2026, receiving recognition from Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
Sanjana Philo Chacko, a Class 12 student from Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, has made her mark on the global stage by winning a silver medal at the European Girls’ Mathematical Olympiad (EGMO) 2026, which took place in Bordeaux, France, on October 1, 2026. This achievement not only highlights her mathematical prowess but also brings international recognition to India’s young talent in mathematics.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi acknowledged Sanjana’s accomplishment during his latest episode of the radio program ‘Mann ki Baat’, where he commended the Indian team’s performance in the competition. He emphasized the importance of such achievements in promoting mathematics among young women, particularly in a country where gender disparities in STEM fields are still prevalent. Modi remarked, “Our young achievers are a testament to the potential that exists in every corner of our nation, and their success inspires others to pursue their dreams in mathematics and science.”
In response to the Prime Minister’s praise, Sanjana expressed her feelings of pride and motivation. She stated, “It was a moment of immense pride and motivation for me and other aspiring students. I hope that this will encourage many students, especially girls, to follow their passion. It is also a great encouragement for me for my future studies.” Her remarks reflect a growing recognition of the need to inspire young women to engage in fields traditionally dominated by men.
Rigorous Selection Process
Sanjana’s journey to the EGMO was marked by a highly competitive multi-stage selection process, designed to identify the brightest young mathematicians in India. She explained, “The first stage is the Indian Olympiad Qualifier in Mathematics (IOQM), which is an objective exam. This is followed by two subjective rounds — the Regional Mathematical Olympiad (RMO) and the Indian National Mathematical Olympiad (INMO).” The IOQM serves as the initial filter, where promising candidates demonstrate their mathematical skills in a standardized format.
Following the INMO, only a select few top-performing students, particularly girls, are invited to participate in an intensive training camp. This camp provides advanced coaching and rigorous testing, serving to further hone the participants’ skills. Sanjana noted, “From the training camp, the top four students are selected to represent India at the EGMO.” This rigorous selection process reflects the commitment to nurturing mathematical talent among Indian youth.
Understanding the European Girls’ Mathematical Olympiad
The EGMO is a prominent international competition aimed at encouraging young women to pursue mathematics at advanced levels. Established to foster female participation in the field, the Olympiad features challenging problem-solving tests that demand creative thinking and analytical skills. Participants from numerous countries compete, creating a diverse environment that promotes collaboration and learning among future leaders in mathematics.
Sanjana’s silver medal win at this year’s EGMO marks her fourth appearance at this esteemed event, underscoring her consistent performance and dedication to mathematics. Her ability to secure a medal in such a prestigious competition not only highlights her individual capabilities but also represents the potential of Indian youth on the global stage.
Impact on Gender Representation in STEM
As discussions surrounding gender representation in STEM fields continue to gain momentum, Sanjana’s success serves as an inspiration for young girls across India. The narrative of women excelling in mathematics and science is critical in breaking down stereotypes and encouraging more girls to pursue these subjects. Sanjana’s achievements may motivate educational institutions to prioritize initiatives that support female students in STEM, creating an environment where they can thrive and excel.
In a broader context, her victory also aligns with government efforts to promote STEM education among girls, as seen in various national programs aimed at increasing female participation in these fields. By highlighting successful role models like Sanjana, these initiatives can have a ripple effect, inspiring a new generation of female mathematicians and scientists.
Conclusion
Sanjana Philo Chacko’s silver medal at the EGMO not only showcases her exceptional talent but also serves as a beacon of hope and inspiration for young women aspiring to enter the fields of mathematics and science. Her journey reflects the significance of hard work, perseverance, and support from both educational institutions and family. As she continues her studies, her story will undoubtedly encourage others to pursue their passions and break barriers in STEM disciplines.
In summarizing her experience, Sanjana aptly captures the essence of this achievement: “Success is not just my own; it is a collective effort, and I hope it encourages others to aim high and dream big.” With her remarkable achievement, Sanjana Philo Chacko stands as a testament to the potential of young women in mathematics, paving the way for future generations to follow.
