Science smarts: Six Hong Kong students won silver and bronze medals in the 4th International Junior Science Olympiad in Taipei.

Hong Kong students have won a silver and five bronze medals in the 4th International Junior Science Olympiad, the city's best ever result.

Two-hundred scientifically gifted secondary students from 38 countries and regions participated in the competition in Taipei December 2 to 11. It comprised a multiple-choice test, a theoretical examination and a practical examination covering physics, chemistry and biology up to Secondary 6 level.

The Hong Kong team surpassed last year's three bronze medals. Tong Hok-fung of Queen's College (S4) won the silver, while Chow Him-wo of King's College (S4), Fung Jun-hou of the Canadian International School (S4), Kwan Chin-wai of Ying Wa College (S3), So Yik-ka of Diocesan Girls' School (S3) and Wong Tin-wai of Baptist Lui Ming Choi Secondary School (S4) won the bronze medals.

The team was groomed by the Gifted Education Section of the Curriculum Development Institute under the Education Bureau.

The students will join a one-year mentorship programme organised by the Gifted Education Section. They will conduct their own scientific research under the guidance of university academics and develop their potential to the fullest.