Math association unveils results, aims for more participation
SINGIDA: THE number of students participating in the annual Mathematics competition organised by the Mathematical Association of Tanzania (MAT) has increased by 49.1 per cent this year compared to last year.
Announcing this year’s competition results yesterday, MAT National Chairperson, Dr Said Sima, said a total of 1,736 students from 119 secondary schools took part in the competition. Last year, the number of participants was 1,164 students from 80 schools.
Held on August 8, the participants included 965 boys and 771 girls, representing 18 regions 17 from Mainland Tanzania and one from Zanzibar.
The competition involves students from Form Three to Form Six students.
He announced the results in Singida during the official opening of a continuing professional development training for inservice teachers and the 60th Annual General Meeting of Mathematics teachers at Mwenge Secondary School.
“The limited number of participating regions was due to budget constraints, low mobilisation, and readiness of schools and students. Our goal is to expand participation so that this talent searching examination can reach students in all regions,” he said.
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He explained that the main objective of the competition is to identify and nurture mathematical talent, while also offering students opportunities to participate in international contests.
According to Dr Sima, the top ten students in each category will receive certificates of recognition, while the top three will be awarded prizes.
He added that all participants will also receive certificates during World Mathematics Day celebrations, scheduled for 14 March next year in Dar es Salaam.
Meanwhile, Director Gen- eral of the Tanzania Commu- nications Regulatory Authority (TCRA), Dr Jabir Bakari, underscored the importance of fostering digital literacy and innovation among students as part of the country’s long-term development goals.
Represented at the event by TCRA Central Zone Manager, Mr Asajile Mwakisisile, Dr Bakari said the authority has rolled out deliberate initiatives to promote awareness, innovation, and talent development among them, encouraging the establishment of digital clubs starting from pre-primary schools.
“The aim is to expand un- derstanding and usage of digital technology as part of the ongoing digital transformation, which is a key pillar for achieving the 2050 Development Vision. I call upon teachers and all education stakeholders to support the establishment of these clubs in their respective schools,” he said.
