Old Mutual Honours Top Students, Teachers in 2024 Math Olympiad
The Old Mutual mathematics Olympiad began in 2015.
MZUZU, Malawi-Old Mutual, a leading financial services company, celebrated academic excellence at the 2024 Mathematics Olympiad by honouring top students, teachers, and schools in a grand ceremony held at Mzuzu University on Saturday, writes Tionge Hara.
With an investment of K33 million, the event recognized the outstanding achievements of 35 Form Four students from multiple secondary schools.
Deputy Vice Chancellor of Mzuzu University, Wapulumuka Mulwafu, commended the students for their hard work and dedication to excellence in mathematics.
He emphasized the importance of the subject as a mind opener for academic success.
"Mathematics is often seen as a challenging subject, but it is also a subject that opens doors to endless possibilities. It is the language of science, technology, engineering, and innovation," Mulwafu said.
"I urge each and every one of you to continue working hard in mathematics, embrace the challenges, and never be afraid to push yourselves beyond your limits."
Mulwafu expressed his gratitude to Old Mutual for their support in recognizing and rewarding excellence in education.
By honoring the best students, teachers, and schools, the company inspires others to strive for greatness.
Tatenda Chibwe, Head of Technical and Strategy at Old Mutual Malawi, expressed his satisfaction with the results and highlighted the significance of Mzuzu University hosting the competition.
He also stressed the importance of increasing girls' participation in mathematics.
"As Old Mutual, we want to support the country in its goals to achieve the MW2063 vision, particularly in the field of education," Chibwe said.
"The benefit is to see our country develop and go forward, and mathematics being one of the key subjects."
Faith Ng'ambi, a 15-year-old student from Likuni Girls, was recognized as the best female student of the year. Expressing her surprise and joy, she encouraged fellow girls to work hard in mathematics.
"As a girl, I always put mathematics into practice. I am overwhelmed today, and I wasn't expecting to be the best," Ng'ambi said.
Martin Master, a 16-year-old student, emerged as the best overall student, winning a prize of K300,000.
Master shared his excitement about achieving his dreams through mathematics.
"Since I was young, mathematics has been my thing, and I am happy today to be the best student. This all shows that my dreams are coming to reality," Master said.
Dedza Secondary School emerged as the winners of the 2024 Old Mutual Mathematics Olympiad, outshining 118 schools with a total of 271 points.
Marist Secondary School secured the second position with a score of 208, followed by Chaminade Marianist Secondary School with 118 points.
The winning schools will receive various mathematics writing and teaching materials to support their continued academic excellence.
The Old Mutual Mathematics Olympiad, which began in 2015, aims to promote mathematics education and inspire students to excel in the subject.