Libyan teen wins bronze for natural antibiotic discovery​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​

A young Libyan scientist has secured a bronze medal at the International Festival of Science and Technology (I-FEST) 2025 in Tunisia after developing a patented natural antibiotic.

Halima Al-Khazali, 18, from Bayda, claimed third place among 800 international competitors for her invention of an antibiotic derived from wormwood and other herbs. Her achievement adds to Libya’s growing reputation in scientific innovation.

The breakthrough came after five months of rigorous research into a traditional Libyan remedy for dental infections, culminating in Al-Khazali obtaining a patent for her discovery.

This latest success follows her previous gold medal at the Bosnia and Herzegovina Science Olympiad (BOSEPO) 2025, where she finished first among 300 participants.

Al-Khazali’s accomplishments highlight both her exceptional scientific talent and Libya’s potential contributions to global scientific research, making her an inspirational figure for young people across Libya and the broader Arab world.