The Grade 8 to 11 learners will gather at Mahube Tumelo Hall from 08:00 to 15:30 as the Free State department of education continues its efforts to improve mathematics performance and encourage learners to embrace the subject. The competition is aimed at improving performance, building confidence, and encouraging more learners to pursue careers in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.

Launched in 2017, the competition aims to demystify mathematics as a difficult subject while increasing learner participation and improving academic performance. Provincial mathematics coordinator Fusi Rantene said the initiative is particularly important in a province where participation in mathematics remains a challenge.

“The competition assists learners to develop an interest in mathematics and encourages them to perform well academically,” said Rantene. “Our main objective is to increase the number of learners achieving Level 7 in mathematics and improve participation in the subject.

“The questions are based on the curriculum, but we also include problem-solving activities to help learners develop their mathematical skills. What is important is that learners enjoy the competition while learning.

“We are excited to have this kind of competition because it increases the number of learners achieving Level 7 in our province. The provincial competition allows learners to participate in the South African Mathematics Olympiad, and potentially progress to the Pan African Mathematics Olympiad.

“Mathematics is not a difficult subject. It requires learners to dedicate enough time to practising every day. We encourage learners to choose mathematics in Grade 10 because it opens up opportunities for them to pursue careers in science, technology, engineering and mathematics.”

The competition had already helped identify talented learners. Two Free State participants will advance to the continental level. Many participants go on to perform well in their matric examinations, reinforcing the importance of initiatives that nurture mathematics talent from an early stage.

The department hopes the competition will inspire more young people to persevere with mathematics, improve their academic results and explore opportunities in fields that depend on strong mathematical skills.

OFM News/Zenande Mpame dg

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