Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU) has partnered with the South African Mathematics Foundation (SAMF) to launch the Siyanqoba Mathematics Olympiad Training Programme, an initiative aimed at strengthening mathematics education and nurturing excellence among high school learners in the Tshwane region.
The partnership was formally introduced during a recent strategic stakeholder engagement meeting hosted by the Department of Mathematics and Applied Mathematics at SMU. Representatives from the South African Mathematics Foundation, Modiri Secondary School, LEAP Science School and Kgatoentle Secondary School, all based in Ga-Rankuwa, joined academic staff from the university to discuss the implementation of the programme and its potential impact on mathematics education and community development.
The initiative aligns closely with SMU’s commitment to community engagement and social transformation. Through mutually beneficial partnerships with local communities, the university seeks to contribute to socio-economic development while creating opportunities for community-based teaching, learning and research. The programme further supports the university’s vision of producing graduates who are engaged citizens and active contributors to societal development.
Head of the Department of Mathematics and Applied Mathematics, Professor Maggie Aphane, emphasised the importance of rebuilding learners’ confidence and interest in mathematics.
“Mathematics is more than a school subject; it is a foundation for critical thinking, innovation and future career opportunities. Through this programme, we aim to equip learners with the skills and confidence they need to excel academically and beyond,’” said Professor Aphane.
She explained that the Siyanqoba programme will prepare learners for participation in the South African Mathematics Olympiad while strengthening their mathematical foundations. The initiative will also provide training opportunities for educators and academic staff who will serve as coaches and tutors, creating a sustainable support system for learner development.
As part of the recruitment process, selection tests were administered to identify learners for the programme. A total of 1,604 Grade 8 and Grade 9 learners from the three participating schools wrote the selection examinations, with 103 learners successfully selected to participate. For Grade 10 learners, 144 pupils from LEAP Science School and Modiri Secondary School participated in the selection process, with 47 qualifying for the programme.
Delivering a presentation on the foundation’s work, SAMF Engagement and Project Manager Patrick Rasehwete outlined the organisation’s commitment to expanding mathematical excellence through learner development, teacher support, advocacy and research. “The Siyanqoba programme is designed to develop advanced problem-solving skills, logical reasoning and a deeper appreciation for mathematics. By investing in young people’s mathematical abilities today, we are investing in South Africa’s future scientists, engineers and innovators,” he said.
Established in 2011, the Siyanqoba Mathematics Olympiad Training Programme has grown into a national initiative implemented through partnerships with universities and educational institutions across the country. The programme follows a nationally developed curriculum aimed at strengthening mathematical reasoning and preparing learners for mathematics competitions and advanced studies.
The participating schools welcomed the initiative and committed to supporting learner participation and sustained engagement with the programme. Their involvement reflects a shared commitment to improving educational outcomes and expanding opportunities for young people in local communities.
By serving as a Siyanqoba training centre, SMU is extending access to high-quality mathematics enrichment opportunities and inspiring more learners to pursue careers in science, technology, engineering, finance and other mathematics-related disciplines. Through initiatives such as this, the university continues to demonstrate its commitment to academic excellence, community development and the transformation of education while empowering the next generation of leaders and innovators in South Africa.
By Tumelo Moila
