This follows after the Eskom Development Foundation, in partnership with the Free State Department of Education, wrapped up their search for the brightest mathematics pupils in the province in Trompsburg over the weekend.

This groundbreaking competition is facilitated by the Provincial Department of Education annually and attracts just over 45 000 pupils from across the province. According to the department, the primary objective is to increase the number of high school learners who take up mathematics as a subject. Pupils from Thabo Vuyo Secondary School, Springfontein Secondary School, Jagersfontein Combined School, Pellissier Combined School, Relebogile Sibulele Combined School, Jacobsdal Landboudal School as well as Hendrik Potgieter Agricultural Combined School made a list of finalists who will battle it out for the top spot.

The competition mainly focuses on conceptual knowledge, the application of knowledge in new situations, problem-solving, reasoning, communication, and creative thinking. Eskom Development Foundation Chief Executive Officer, Cecil Ramonotsi, says in a statement exposure to mathematics, science, technology, innovation, and engineering activities is critical in equipping youngsters with the tools they need in order to contribute positively to the country’s economy, particularly heading to the fourth industrial revolution. He adds that this competition also motivates youngsters to improve their mathematical abilities and inspire them to look into science, technology, engineering and mathematics careers.

The top three winners in each category from Xhariep will compete with successful participants from the Fezile Dabi, Lejweleputswa, Thabo Mofutsanyana, and Motheo districts in the provincial maths festival taking place in Bloemfontein on 11 and 12 October 2019.

OFM News/Michael Tlhakudi