EASTERN CAPE MATHS STARS SHINE AT PRESTIGIOUS MATHS COMPETITION 

The Eastern Cape Department of Education proudly hosted the prestigious Horizon Mathematics Competition awards ceremony at the Mandla Makupula Education Leadership Institute in the Buffalo City Metro Education District. This highly anticipated event recognized and rewarded the Province’s Top 100 learners who showcased exceptional problem-solving skills, logical reasoning and mathematical creativity.

Nodumo Msindo, Deputy Chief Education Specialist for Mathematics emphasized the power of collaboration between the Eastern Cape Department of Education and the Horizon Education Trust. "The event is a collaborative effort to honor excellence, dedication and passion for Mathematics," she said. 

"The Horizon Mathematics Competition which is designed for Grade 5, 6 and 7 learners across South Africa, has enabled us to identify and celebrate mathematical talent. Today, we recognize and celebrate the top 100 learners for their outstanding achievements”, added Msindo.

Horizon Educational Trust Director, Isak Turan reflected on the competition’s remarkable growth since its inception in 2000. "By 2005 we had 95,000 entrants nationally with 44,181 from the Eastern Cape alone," he noted. 

Turan added by emphasising the competition’s impact on learners. "It improves problem-solving, critical thinking and mental math skills. We are celebrating excellence and cultivating a love for math, driving performance and participation Province-wide”, said Turan.

Muhammed Hassan Desai, a Grade 6 learner from Nizamiye Al-Azhar Institute in the Nelson Mandela Bay Education District won first position in the competition and expressed his appreciation. "I am absolutely delighted to have won the Gold Medal and laptop. This achievement is a dream come true and I am grateful for the opportunity to showcase my mathematical skills throughout the competition”, Desai exclaimed. 

Furthermore, Lilitha Sangcozi, a bright and talented Grade 5 learner from Maclear Public School was beamed with pride as she accepted her Bronze Medal and bicycle after being declared the 4th position winner. "I am so happy and grateful, I did not expect to win but I am thrilled to take home the Bronze Medal and my very own bicycle. This is an unforgettable moment, and I will always cherish it”, concluded Sangcozi.