Mathematics is more than formulas, calculations and finding the correct answer. It is a discipline that demands curiosity, logical reasoning, persistence and the confidence to approach unfamiliar problems. These qualities are at the heart of the Siyanqoba Mathematics Olympiad Training Programme, implemented through a strategic collaboration between Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU) and the South African Mathematics Foundation (SAMF).
The programme is designed for high school learners who demonstrate aptitude and enthusiasm for mathematics, with a strong emphasis on mathematical problem-solving rather than the routine questions that often dominate the school curriculum. It exposes learners to mathematical concepts and enrichment material beyond the prescribed curriculum while seeking to strengthen South Africa’s competitiveness in mathematics.
According to Patrick Rasehwete, Engagement and Project Manager at SAMF, the programme seeks to address an important gap in mathematics education. “The Siyanqoba Mathematics Olympiad Training Programme is an outreach programme for high school students throughout the country who show particular ability and interest in mathematics. The programme concentrates on developing mathematical problem-solving skills, unlike in regular school curricula where the focus is more on solving routine-type questions,” said Rasehwete.
He explained that the programme places considerable emphasis on conceptual understanding rather than memorisation. “The emphasis is on the understanding of mathematical concepts rather than pure memorisation of formulae. It furthermore covers enrichment material which is not in the school curriculum and aims to improve our competitiveness internationally,” he said.
The Siyanqoba Centre at SMU is initially supporting Grade 8 to Grade 10 learners from participating secondary schools, including Kgatoentle Secondary Leap Mathematics and Science School and Modiri High School. The learners were selected after completing a selection assessment, while the schools’ longstanding collaboration with SMU was an important consideration in establishing the programme.
For Nthati Innocentia Xaba, an MSc Mathematics student, the training provides an opportunity to engage with mathematics beyond conventional classroom approaches. Her perspective highlights the importance of creating opportunities for mathematics students and educators to engage with problem-solving approaches that encourage deeper mathematical thinking and build confidence.
The two-day training programme held at SMU primarily focused on preparing educators, coaches and tutors who will work with the selected learners. Rather than concentrating exclusively on mathematical content, the training equips facilitators with strategies to help learners navigate complex and unfamiliar problems. “The two-day training is an essential orientation programme for facilitators, namely coaches, tutors and teachers who will be providing lessons to the identified learners,” Rasehwete said. “The training will provide facilitators with various strategies to use when dealing with learners.”
Participants engaged in problem-solving activities designed to deepen their understanding of mathematical reasoning and the processes involved in tackling challenging questions. Mathematical thinking, mathematical modelling, and the control of the problem-solving process were among the areas explored during the training.
The programme was facilitated by Emeritus Professor Poobhalan Pillay, appointed by SAMF as Academic Coordinator of the Siyanqoba Mathematics Olympiad Programme. Pillay brings extensive experience in mathematics education, having lectured for 40 years at the former University of Durban-Westville and the University of KwaZulu-Natal.
The programme also responds to structural challenges affecting mathematics education in South Africa. “Learners do not have enough resources to deal with problem-solving strategies, and teachers are victims of their own previous education and are likely to continue to teach the way they were taught, by focussing on routine problems unless a way is found to interrupt this self-perpetuating cycle,” Rasehwete said.
For SMU, the initiative represents a significant extension of its community engagement mandate. It provides the university with an opportunity to contribute to mathematics education while supporting schools and educators in surrounding communities.
By Dimakatso Modise
