Mathematics whizz kid Jana Rossouw, a Gr. 11 learner of the Jim Fouché High School in Bloemfontein, is the only Free State candidate in the team of six representing South Africa in the Pan African Mathematics Olympiads (PAMO) competition. Underway in Rwanda, it will end on 22 May, having started on 13 May.
The South African Mathematics Foundation (SAMF) selected the six teammates on merit. The others in the South African team are from the Western Cape. They are Eli Williams, Gr. 9, Westerford High School; Ellen Grant-Smith, Gr. 10, Westerford High School; Hugo Bruwer, Gr. 12, Paarl Boys’ High School; Moied Baleg, Gr. 10, Settlers High School; and Yian Xu, Gr. 10, Redhill School.
Prof Kerstin Jordaan, the foundation’s executive director and a full-time Mathematics researcher, explained that the country’s weak educational system restricts the selection of demographically representative teams.
“Only the cream of the crop can be considered to represent South Africa. Last year only 2,7% of learners who wrote the National Senior Certificate (NSC) examinations achieved a distinction in Mathematics,” says Jordaan.
The foundation selected the top six based on their performance in the previous year’s national Mathematics competitions. “The learners in the national Mathematics team’s incredible journey started from their early days in primary school as participants in the Mathematics Challenge, an initiative that identifies and nurtures mathematical talent in South Africa.
“Through years of perseverance, dedication, and rigorous training, they have achieved the remarkable feat of earning a spot on the national team. These events showcase the extraordinary problem-solving abilities, mathematical prowess, and analytical thinking of our talented students,” says Jordaan.
Jordaan says the PAMO, together with the International Mathematics Olympiad (IMO), are prestigious platforms that bring together the best young mathematicians from across the globe.
“They are fostering a spirit of friendly competition and intellectual growth. Over the years, they honed their skills, developing a passion for Mathematics and participating in various local, regional, and national competitions.”
