IT was a moment to savour for Werda School Grade 11 learner Tyler Harripersadh who won a bronze medal (individual) and a gold honours award (mixed nationality team competition) at the recent Vietnam International Applied Mathematics Competition (VIAMC).

The event in Vietnam is seen as one of the most prestigious international mathematics competitions and brought together learners from more than 40 countries.

In order to qualify for the opportunity, Tyler performed exceptionally in two rounds of the SA Olympiads for Applied Mathematics last year.

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The team competition, which was made up of competitors from around the world who speak different languages, had participants work together to showcase that mathematics is a universal language.

Tyler said he was ecstatic with the results.

“It was an amazing experience and I was honestly in disbelief when they called out my name for the team round. The competition was fierce and I never expected to place in the top three, let alone place first with the team. In the individual round, however, I was confident and I at least achieved a bronze. I would say I grew from the experience in my school; while maths is my favourite subject, however this Olympiad really challenged me,” he said.

“I can still apply for the Olympiad this year and I plan on participating. I’m curious how difficult the Grade 11-12 Olympiad will be and I also want to challenge myself once more,” he said.

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He also thanked his teachers and parents for supporting him through the competition.

“My teachers and my parents were rooting for me throughout the Olympiad, you could say that this was my motivation to make them proud. If I did not have them to help and support me then I’m 100% sure that I would not have achieved these results,” he said.

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