March 14th, globally recognised as Pi Day, is an annual celebration dedicated to the mathematical constant π (pi ≈ 3.14159…). The occasion provides an opportunity for learners, educators, and mathematics enthusiasts to appreciate the significance of this irrational number in various disciplines. This year, Pi Day 2025 was marked with great enthusiasm at Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU), bringing together high school learners, university educators, and professionals in mathematics and applied mathematics.
Professor Ndlovu, a dedicated mathematics lecturer at SMU, expressed his excitement for Pi Day, emphasising its importance beyond the numerical value of π. “Pi Day is more than just a date on the calendar; it’s a celebration of the beauty, depth, and elegance of mathematics. This year, we celebrated with learners from P.H. Moraka, N.H. Tsheune, Modiri, and Bethsaida high schools in Tshwane. Our goal was to educate them about the history of Pi, introduce them to careers in mathematics and applied mathematics, and provide guidance on Admission Point Score (APS) requirements for pursuing a Bachelor of Science (BSc) in Mathematics.”
While Pi is commonly associated with circles, its applications extend into physics, engineering, and computer science. Pi Day serves as a valuable opportunity to explore these applications and appreciate the number’s infinite and non-repeating nature. “Pi appears in engineering, physics, technology, and even nature,” Ndlovu explained. “Understanding its applications helps students see the real-world relevance of mathematics.”
Among the many Pi Day activities, problem-solving sessions remain a favourite for both learners and teachers. Educators use interactive games, real-world applications, and fun challenges to make learning mathematics engaging. These activities help demystify complex concepts, fostering an appreciation for mathematics beyond the classroom.
According to Ndlovu, one of the biggest misconceptions learners have about Pi is that it is “just a number with no use.” However, by demonstrating its significance in real-world applications such as architecture, space exploration, and digital technology, learners gain a newfound appreciation for this mathematical constant.
Pi Day provides a platform to inspire young minds and encourage them to explore mathematics as a career. The Mathematics and Applied Mathematics Department at SMU believes that such events foster curiosity and enthusiasm among students. Professor Maggie Aphane, Head of the Department, highlighted the importance of celebrating Pi Day: “It provides an opportunity for students and staff to engage with mathematical concepts in a fun and interactive way. It also serves as a platform to promote mathematics and inspire future mathematicians.”
The Mathematics and Applied Mathematics Department at SMU works closely with local schools to promote mathematical literacy. Through Pi Day events, workshops, and competitions, they engage learners in meaningful ways. They also collaborate with local businesses and organisations to foster community involvement in mathematics education.
The event was organised in collaboration with the South African Mathematics Foundation (SAMF) and the Department of Science and Innovation (DSI). SAMF, as the custodian of the Mathematics Olympiad, relies on institutions like SMU to assist in conducting primary, secondary, and tertiary mathematics competitions. DSI sponsors these activities, ensuring learners gain exposure to mathematics beyond the school syllabus.
A total of 50 staff and postgraduate students from SMU participated in the celebration. Patrick Rasehwete, a representative of SAMF, shared his experience: “Our mandate was to engage with DSI to secure funding, ensuring the event’s success.” DSI sponsored the prizes and refreshments for learners and officials through their agency, the South African Agency for Science and Technology Advancement (SAASTA). Additionally, CASIO collaborated with SAMF to sponsor 15 scientific calculators for the day.”
The success of Pi Day 2025 has set the stage for future collaborations between SMU, SAMF, and DSI. Plans are already underway to expand the participation of more secondary schools in mathematics olympiad competitions and to celebrate other mathematics-related days, such as Euler Day, Pythagorean Theorem Day, Square Root Day, and Palindrome Day.
As Pi Day continues to grow in popularity, it serves as a reminder that mathematics is not just about numbers and equations—it is a universal language that connects us all. Professor Aphane concluded: “Mathematics is everywhere. Events like Pi Day help students see its significance and encourage them to pursue their passions with confidence.”
By Tumelo Moila
