THE South African Mathematics Olympiad (SAMO), one of the country's most popular school competitions is celebrating its 50th anniversary this year.
The first Olympiad took place in 1966 with 5 234 learners from 433 schools. Since then the SAMO has grown to one of South Africa's most popular school competitions and this year 81 665 learners from 1 038 schools participated in the first round of the Olympiad.
Participation in the SAMO ultimately prepares a learner for tertiary education. Besides identifying mathematical ability, the preparation for maths competitions develops talent further. There are many examples of high achievers in the SAMO who have gone on to become leaders in many diverse areas of science, engineering, commerce and technology.
Learners who obtain 50 per cent and more qualified for the second round of the Olympiad on 13 May. This year 14 586 participants from 729 schools wrote the second round of the SAMO. The final round was written on 29 July by 211 contestants from 110 schools.
The top 10 contestants per division will be announced at the SAMF Annual Gala Awards evening scheduled to take place on 19 September in Durban.
To celebrate SAMO's 50th anniversary Allan Graham, one of the Olympiad's first winners in 1966, will be the guest speaker for the evening.
Registration for the 2016 SAMO takes place in January each year. Contact the SAMF office at 012 392 9362 or email: info@samf.ac.za
