17-Year-Old Norway Math Winner Donates Prize to Support Ukraine

Skomantas Urbonas, a 17-year-old student who won first place in Norway’s national mathematics Olympiad, has decided to donate his prize money to the Ukrainian Armed Forces and the Ukrainian healthcare system, according to the press service of the Ukrainian Ministry of Foreign Affairs on April 2.

The reward totals 15,000 Norwegian kroner ($1,400).

When explaining his decision, the student said, "I've always heard that evil can only win when good people do nothing."

He also stated, "That's why I felt that this achievement would have more meaning if it could contribute to Ukraine's victory."

The young mathematician has a history of academic success. Information from the Wolfram Community scientific platform shows that he earned a silver medal at the Norwegian Olympiad in 2025.

He also won the Lithuanian national youth mathematics Olympiad in 2024.

Previously, the Prime Minister of Norway, Jonas Gahr Støre, announced that Norway's total support for Ukraine in 2026 would amount to nearly $8 billion.

During a press meeting in Kyiv, he emphasized that Norway had evolved from donating from its stockpiles to becoming a significant partner in Ukraine’s defense capabilities.

Støre also highlighted that over $1.7 billion had been provided since 2022 to repair and decentralize the energy sector following Russian missile attacks on infrastructure. He reaffirmed that Norway remained committed to supporting Ukraine's sovereignty and diplomatic efforts to achieve peace.

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