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Rwanda hosts largest PAMO ever, celebrates math talent across Africa

By IGIHE
On 24 May 2023 at 12:35

Rwanda has hosted the 30th edition of the Pan-African Mathematics Olympiad (PAMO 2023) from May 13th to May 22nd, 2023, attracting over 100 participants from 34 countries. This was the largest and most diverse PAMO ever held, showcasing the mathematical potential of African youth and promoting scientific education throughout the continent.

The annual event brought together exceptionally talented mathematicians from diverse African backgrounds, who competed for medals, scholarships and the opportunity to represent Africa in the global PAMO competitions. The participants also engaged in cultural and social activities, fostering stronger connections and collaborations among themselves and with their mentors.

PAMO is an event organized each year by the African Mathematics Union (AMU) since 1987.

It aims to encourage youth engagement, particularly among girls, in the fields of mathematics and sciences. It also serves as a platform for knowledge-sharing and capacity-building among African nations. PAMO 2023 was co-hosted by AIMS Rwanda, the Rwandan government, and the University of Rwanda (UR), with support from the Pan-African Mathematics Union’s PAMO Commission.

The presence of Rwanda’s Minister of Education, Valentine Uwamariya, among the distinguished guests, emphasized the country’s dedication to promoting science and mathematics.

The Rwandan participants received guidance from a diverse group of mentors, including professors from the University of Rwanda and the African Institute for Mathematical Sciences (AIMS). For these prodigies, PAMO provides an opportunity to showcase their skills while exploring different cultures through travel.

"PAMO is a great experience for me. I learned a lot from my mentors and peers. I also enjoyed visiting different places in Rwanda and meeting new friends," said Jean-Paul Nshimiyimana, a bronze medalist from Rwanda.

PAMO 2023 introduced some innovations to enhance the participation and experience of the participants. For instance, eight participants joined online from countries that had not sent teams on-site before, expanding the reach and diversity of PAMO.

Moreover, a significant public event called "Math on the Street" was organized in Kigali on May 21st, which was car-free day. This event aimed to raise awareness about the importance of mathematics and sciences in everyday life while stimulating critical thinking among the public.

PAMO 2023 witnessed record-breaking participation, with 26 countries sending teams on-site and an additional 8 participants joining online. Each team comprised six members, consisting of three boys and three girls. Participants faced the challenge of two 4-hour and 30-minute exams, featuring carefully selected questions by the problem selection committee and the PAMO jury. A total of 36 medals were awarded: 12 gold, 12 silver and 12 bronze. The top three countries were Morocco, Tunisia and South Africa. The winners of PAMO 2023 will go on to represent the African continent in the global PAMO competitions.

PAMO 2023 was made possible by the generous support of various sponsors and partners who share the vision of advancing mathematical education in Africa. The organizers are AIMS Rwanda, the Republic of Rwanda and UR. The gold sponsor is Jane Street, a quantitative trading firm that uses innovative technology and scientific methods to trade in global markets.

The silver sponsors are The German Cooperation GIZ through the Digital Transformation Center-Rwanda, which supports digital innovation and entrepreneurship in Rwanda; and The MasterCard Foundation, which works with visionary organizations to enable young people in Africa to access quality education and financial services. The bronze sponsor is RwandAir, Rwanda’s flag carrier that operates domestic and international flights to over 25 destinations.

The supporters are Rawise, a Rwandan company that provides software solutions for education; Hence, a global platform that connects students with mentors; Liquid Telecom, a leading communications solutions provider across Africa; Airtel, a leading provider of telecommunications and mobile money services in Africa; and Global Talent Network, a network that connects talented professionals with opportunities across Africa.

PAMO 2023 was a successful event that celebrated the mathematical talent across Africa and inspired many young students to pursue their passion for mathematics and sciences. The organizers thank all the sponsors, partners, mentors, teachers, volunteers and participants for their contribution and collaboration in making PAMO 2023 a memorable experience.
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The annual event brought together exceptionally talented mathematicians from diverse African backgrounds.
Rwandan Minister of Education, Valentine Uwamariya was among guests of honour who graced the event.
PAMO 2023 witnessed record-breaking participation, with 26 countries sending teams on-site and an additional 8 participants joining online.
Each team comprised six members, consisting of three boys and three girls.
PAMO brought together over 100 participants from 34 countries.

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