2026 Shafi Prize Honours Top Diploma Student

Since 2023, Diploma students who have distinguished themselves for their academic excellence in the programme have been awarded a special prize established by Qaisar and Monika Shafi, long-time friends and supporters of ICTP, to recognize and encourage the next generation of young scientists. 

The 2026 Shafi Prize was awarded to Nathasya Abenita Christien at the recent Diploma graduation ceremony, where Christien also earned a prize for achieving the top grades in her chosen line of study, Earth System Physics. Christien, of Indonesia, said in a recent ICTP interview that she plans to pursue a PhD in climate science to address environmental problems that affect her home country. 

Joining the 2026 Diploma ceremony online, the Shafis expressed their pleasure at witnessing the yearly graduations. "It is wonderful to see the accomplishments of these young scientists, to hear about your experiences--we especially appreciate the testimonials that really convey how important this year was and how it has changed your lives both in terms of the scientific work you did but equally importantly is the sense of community and friendships you have found," said Monica Shafi.

She continued, "ICTP really is the UN of physics, and you are the ambassadors who will now go out. We wish you much success and hope that you will have a bright and happy future, and that the lifelong friends you made during this past year will continue to accompany you on your journey."