TZ must embrace mathematics to play key role in global development
SOUTH AFRICA: TANZANIA has been encouraged to prioritise mathematics education, particularly for students, to enable the country’s large youth population to contribute effectively to global development, especially in the fields of science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM).
This call follows the commendable performance of five Tanzanian students at the 2024 Pan African Mathematics Olympiads (PAMO), where they secured 15th place out of 25 participating countries with a total score of 37 points.
The competition took place at the University of Witwatersrand in Johannesburg, South Africa, from August 10 to 20, this year.
Three of the students—Ambrose Rutashobya, Zacharia Mwita, and Stella Maliti—won four bronze medals, with Maliti earning two, including the PAMO Girls Medal.
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The other two participants, Mwanaarab Said Mbwana and Ilham Abdallah Awadh, both from Zanzibar and still in secondary school, also represented the country.
Their participation was sponsored by the Tanzania Communications Regulatory Authority (TCRA).
Chairman of the Tanzania Mathematics Association (MAT) Dr Said Sima and a lecturer at the University of Dar es Salaam (UDSM), praised the country’s achievement and highlighted its historical significance in international competitions.
He credited this success to the sixth phase government’s efforts under President Samia Suluhu Hassan, particularly through the Ministry of Education, Science, and Technology, which has been working to enhance STEM education.
“This achievement demonstrates that mathematics is within our reach in Tanzania. We need to focus more on our students and strengthen their engagement with mathematics. This positive outcome offers our country a chance to participate more actively in global technological advancements,” said Dr Sima.
Head of the Mathematics Department at the College of Natural and Applied Sciences (CONAS-UDSM), Dr Sylvester Rugeihyamu congratulated the winners on their outstanding performance but noted the challenge of limited sponsorship for competition preparation.
He called on stakeholders and the Ministry of Education, Science, and Technology to support initiatives that increase mathematical knowledge and improve future performance in international competitions.
“We cannot advance in technology or STEM without a strong foundation in mathematics. We need to address weaknesses in ordinary level mathematics and work to motivate students and change negative perceptions of the subject,” Dr Rugeihyamu added.
The Director of Legal Services at TCRA, Dr Philip Filikunjombe representing the Authority’s Director General, emphasised the essential role of mathematics in disciplines such as computer science and cybersecurity.
He underscored that a solid foundation in mathematics is crucial for national development and commended the students for their achievements.
TCRA will continue to support efforts in mathematics and science education, starting from the primary school level.
One of the students, Ms Maliti expressed gratitude for the opportunity to represent Tanzania and encouraged other young people, especially girls, to pursue excellence in mathematics.
On his part, Rutashobya also thanked the government, TCRA, and MAT for their support and suggested improvements for future preparation, such as providing necessary equipment, internet access, and mathematics coaches.
He urged MAT to reach out to all schools across the country and encouraged parents to financially support their children’s education if possible.
