The maths and science competitions staged by the National Commission on Research, Science and Technology (NCRST) have attracted 14 355 pupils countrywide.
The NCRST, in a media statement on Sunday, said this is almost double the number of last year’s participants, which was 7 301.
The NCRST hosted an awards ceremony for the National Science Fair (NSF), Namibia Mathematics Olympiad (NMO) and the National Science Quiz (NSQ) in Windhoek on 13 September.
During the three competitions, 92 individuals, teams and schools across were awarded.
“The events were attended by participants from all 14 regions. Notably, participation in all events recorded significant increases,” noted the NCRST.
The NMO grew from 2 744 participants in 2023 to 6 518 this year. Similarly, the NSQ increased from 2 235 in 2023 to 5 131 this year, while the NSF rose from 2 322 in 2023 to 2 686 this year.
NCRST chief executive Anicia Peters said Namibia is now ready to begin sending candidates to the International Mathematics Olympiad.
“This year for the first time we are observers at the International Mathematics Olympiad. We’ve sent our trainers to see how it plays out because next year we would like to participate at international level,” Peters said.
Peters further expressed gratitude to all the sponsors and partners for their contributions and support in nurturing the minds of future problem solvers and innovators.
The keynote address at the awards ceremony was delivered by Edda Bohn, the deputy executive director of education, on behalf of the minister of education, arts and culture, Anna Nghipondoka.
Bohn congratulated the participants and thanked the teachers, mentors and parents who supported and encouraged the future leaders during their preparations.
She highlighted that the true value of education lies not in awards and accolades, but in the knowledge gained to solve the problems encountered by individuals and humankind.
Photo: National Commission on Research, Science and Technology
Stay informed with The Namibian – your source for credible journalism. Get in-depth reporting and opinions for
only N$85 a month. Invest in journalism, invest in democracy –
Subscribe Now!
