Four students from Belgrade’s Mathematical Grammar School have won five gold medals at the 18th International Knowledge Olympiad in Antalya, Turkey, demonstrating outstanding abilities in mathematics, physics and English.
The international competition, held from October 25 to November 1, 2026, brought together nearly 400 students representing 23 schools from 13 countries.
The Serbian students earned five gold medals across three subjects, according to an announcement by their school.
Four Students, Five Gold Medals
Nikola Kočović was the team’s double gold medalist, winning awards in both physics and English.
Vanja Jelovac and Nina Šušić each earned a gold medal in mathematics, while Luka Smiljanić won gold in physics.
The students represented the Mathematical Grammar School, one of Serbia’s specialized institutions for academically gifted young people.
The school’s announcement credited their success to sustained preparation, academic dedication and the support of their teachers.
Team leader Miljan Knežević, from the University of Belgrade’s Faculty of Mathematics, accompanied the students during the competition.
The results marked a successful start to the school’s new international competition season.
Young Talent Beyond the Classroom
One of the most memorable moments involved Nikola Kočović, who demonstrated another talent beyond his achievements in physics and English.
During the event, he performed Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky’s Don Juan’s Serenade, earning praise from fellow competitors and teachers.
The competition also gave participants opportunities to meet students from other countries, exchange experiences and build international friendships.
For Luka Smiljanić, the gold medal reflects months of demanding preparation.
In an interview with Euronews Serbia, he explained that some competition problems required several days of work and that the challenge motivated him to prepare even harder.
Smiljanić also discussed his interest in electrical engineering and the application of physics to fusion reactor development.
The five gold medals add to a series of international academic achievements by students from Serbia.
For Serbian families at home and abroad, the results highlight a new generation of young people making their mark through education, scientific curiosity and determination.
