Between Algorithms and Medals: The Olympic Experience in Informatics at IFPB Campina Grande (2013 to 2025)

Abstract

This paper presents the experience of the Programming Olympic Project of the Federal Institute of Paraíba - Campina Grande campus (POP-CG), from 2013 to 2025. The project aims to promote the training of students in the area of ​​computer programming, stimulating the development of computational thinking and encouraging participation in scientific informatics olympiads. The methodology adopted is based on the offering of face-to-face and remote classes, systematic problem-solving on online platforms, use of virtual learning environments, and organization of students by levels of knowledge. The results presented include achievements obtained in the Brazilian Informatics Olympiad (OBI), the Paraíba Informatics Olympiad (OPI), and the OBI Women's Competition, showing significant growth in the number of awards, as well as the strengthening of female participation. In conclusion, the project makes a significant contribution to the scientific, technological, and civic education of students, establishing itself as an impactful educational outreach activity capable of stimulating talent, promoting inclusion, and strengthening the culture of participation in computer science olympiads.