The Department of Mathematics and Applied Mathematics at Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU), in collaboration with Tshwane University of Technology (TUT) and the South African Mathematics Foundation (SAMF), celebrated Mathematics Day, known as Square Root Day, on 5 May 2025. The celebration, held at Baleseng Junior Secondary and Reitumetse Secondary Schools in Soshanguve, aimed to inspire learners to appreciate the value of mathematics and its role in solving real-world challenges.
Square Root Day is a rare mathematical event that occurs when both the day and the month are the square roots of the last two digits of the year. This year’s celebration fell on 5/5/25, since 5 × 5 = 25. The next Square Root Day will only take place on 6/6/36 (6 June 2036), making the 2025 occasion particularly special.
“This day offered a unique opportunity to engage young minds with the beauty of mathematics,” said Professor Maggie Aphane, Head of the Department of Mathematics and Applied Mathematics at SMU. “We want to show learners that mathematics is more than numbers; it’s a way of thinking critically, solving problems, and shaping the world around them.”
The initiative formed part of SMU’s commitment to optimising the impact of community engagement. The university aspires to become a recognised cornerstone of social and economic development, contributing to the health and transformation of local communities. Through partnerships like this, SMU aims to establish mutually beneficial relationships with communities, allowing both students and staff to gain from community-based teaching, learning, and research.
“We believe that true education connects students to relevant, complex, real-world contexts,” added Aphane. “By taking mathematics beyond the lecture hall and into the community, we are preparing graduates who are not only skilled professionals but engaged citizens.”
At Baleseng Junior Secondary, where the celebration included interactive talks and maths quizzes, the enthusiasm was palpable. Gloria Khoza, principal of the school, which caters to Grade 8 and 9 learners, expressed her gratitude: “SMU and TUT’s visit to our school on this special Mathematics Day has brought motivation and zeal to love, appreciate, and pursue mathematics through our learners’ academic milestones. It has inspired our learners to also focus on peer learning.”
Over at Reitumetse Secondary School, Grade 12 learner Puseletso Manganyi shared how the event had changed her outlook. “The day helped me finally consider pursuing a career as a mathematician,” she said, beaming with pride after participating in the quiz and winning a branded SMU golf shirt.
Kholofelo Rampekwa, an educator at Reitumetse, was instrumental in inviting SMU and TUT to her school. “I invited SMU and TUT to enrich our learners with problem-solving and analytical skills,” she explained. “It’s important for them to learn that maths is not just about numbers but about the capacity to solve challenges. We needed this.”
The celebration included talks by academics from SMU and TUT, who shared their journeys in mathematics and encouraged learners to explore opportunities in the field. Learners engaged in challenging questions designed to foster critical thinking and creativity.
The Department of Mathematics and Applied Mathematics’ vision is to contribute to South Africa and the global community through excellence in mathematics and applied mathematics education and research. Its mission includes providing an environment where students can become independent, innovative thinkers and users of mathematics; creating a conducive space for teaching, learning, and research; and promoting academic growth through undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral programmes. The university also seeks to undertake projects that provide job opportunities for students through collaborations with industry.
The event was well-received by learners, educators, and staff alike. “This celebration was a reminder that mathematics can be exciting and empowering,” reflected Dr Malesela Kekana, Section Head for Mathematics at TUT. “By connecting with schools directly, we are building bridges that will benefit both the universities and the communities for years to come.”
With the next Square Root Day more than a decade away, the 2025 celebration left a lasting impression on the learners of Soshanguve, planting seeds of curiosity, confidence, and ambition that will continue to grow.
By Tumelo Moila
