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Published on July 30, 2007

The competition attracted 520 contestants from 93 countries.

According to the Institute for the Promotion of Teaching Science and Technology, Panupong Pasupat of Triam Udom Suksa School won gold while schoolmates Wit Heungwattanakul and Suthee Ruangwises grasped silver.

The other silver medallist was Pasin Manurangsi, a student from Bangkok Christian College.

Aged 13, Pasin is the youngest among the Thai contestants.

Bringing home bronze are Pacharapon Sutheparak and Warat Suksompong, also from Triam Udom Suksa School.

Institute director Surin Pongsupasamit said all local medallists would receive university scholarships to further their studies abroad in fields of their choosing.

After graduation, they will be required to return to Thailand to work.

Panupong, 16, saw gold as an award for his determination

and hard study. "I would like to encourage children to realise the importance of education and ethics. Please study hard for the future of the country," he said.

Panupong said "listening well in class" was his secret to learning. After class, "revise lessons and practise. If you can't do a maths problem, ask for help."

He credits his parents for his success. "They supported me to pursue the subject I like," Panupong said.

Pasin was proud. "To study well you have to love what you learn. If you are bored or discouraged, find other activities to do," he suggested.