The South African Mathematics Foundation (SAMF) marks the International Day of Education by encouraging schools to enter the South African Mathematics Challenge (SAMC) – sponsored by the South African Institute for Chartered Accountants (SAICA) – and the South African Mathematics Olympiad (SAMO). Both competitions give learners a chance to build confidence, learn problem-solving skills, and see mathematics as a path to opportunity.

The International Day of Education on 24 January reminds the world that young people help shape the direction of learning. This year’s theme, The power of youth in co-creating education, highlights that the voices of learners matter. They help guide the future of classrooms, especially as technology changes the way teaching works.

Dr Belinda Huntley, a mathematics educator and member of the SAMC Problem Committee (this is the committee responsible for setting the questions for each paper), works with learners who enjoy solving problems. She explains that youth participation in education depends on strong thinking skills. “Young people take part more easily when they can reason well and solve problems with confidence,” she says. “These skills help them understand information, test ideas, and share suggestions about how they want to learn.”

Mathematics plays a central part in this development. Every lesson gives learners a chance to test patterns, work through ideas, and look for solutions. These steps build a habit of clear thinking. “Mathematics trains the mind to think in a steady and logical way,” Dr Huntley explains. “When learners practise this often, they become more confident in shaping their education.”

Registrations for the 2026 SAMC for Grades 4 to 7, and SAMO for Grades 8 to 12, are now open to all schools and home-school groups across South Africa. “These programmes give learners the space to learn new skills and prepare for the future,” says Dr Huntley. “They also help young people discover what they can achieve when they push their thinking a little further.”

The SAMF invites educators to enter their learners and take part in building the next generation of problem-solvers. Registrations for both competitions are open. Schools can enter at www.samf.ac.za before 20 February 2026. Entry fees start at R45, and Quintile 1 and 2 schools enter free of charge.