Miss Prisca Ezeugwu of Lorreto Special Science School, Dazzle in Mathematics Championship

 

Mathematical excellence took center stage in Anambra State as young prodigies demonstrated exceptional skills in the recently concluded SMASE Africa – IDK Mathematics Championship held in Awka.

The prestigious competition, aimed at fostering a stronger foundation in mathematics among students, saw Miss Prisca Ezeugwu of Lorreto Special Science School, Adazi-Nnukwu, emerge as the overall champion. Her outstanding performance distinguished her from a pool of talented contestants, securing her the coveted top prize.

Meanwhile, the middle category of the contest was dominated by Master Kamsiyochukwu Anigbogu of Divine Race British School, Obosi, while the junior category was won by Master Obinna Nwigwe of Ridge Valley Academy, Awka.

A Reward for Excellence

The three overall winners did not leave empty-handed; each received a brand-new computer, a recognition of their brilliance and dedication. In their acceptance speeches, the students expressed heartfelt gratitude to the event organizers, their teachers, and parents for supporting them on their mathematical journey.

“It’s an incredible feeling to be recognized for something I love doing,” Prisca Ezeugwu remarked, beaming with joy. “Mathematics has always been my passion, and I am grateful to my teachers and parents for guiding me.”

Her sentiments were echoed by Anigbogu and Nwigwe, who described the competition as both challenging and rewarding, encouraging other students to embrace mathematics as an essential tool for problem-solving in real life.

The Drive Behind the Competition

Speaking on the vision behind the SMASE Africa – IDK Mathematics Championship, Mrs. Chinwe Nweke, the Chief Executive Officer of Integral Development Konsult (IDK) Learning Centre, Awka, emphasized the importance of mathematics as the backbone of science and technology.

According to her, the competition serves as a platform to strengthen mathematics and science education, ensuring that Anambra students are adequately prepared for the rapidly evolving global landscape.

“Mathematics is not just a subject—it is the foundation of all technological advancements,” Mrs. Nweke explained. “This championship is designed to instill confidence in students, help them master analytical thinking, and position them for greater opportunities beyond the classroom.”

She further revealed that the championship is structured in stages, with students expected to undergo additional rounds of assessments before qualifying for international-level mathematics contests.

Shaping Future Innovators

The significance of mathematics in today’s world cannot be overstated. From engineering and medicine to artificial intelligence and finance, strong mathematical skills open doors to limitless possibilities. The SMASE Africa – IDK Mathematics Championship is not just a competition; it is a gateway to nurturing future innovators, engineers, and scientists.

By recognizing and rewarding mathematical talent at an early stage, the competition is helping to build a generation of critical thinkers who will contribute meaningfully to national and global development.

With this year’s contest concluded, expectations are already high for the next edition. If the performances witnessed in Awka are anything to go by, Anambra State is undoubtedly grooming some of Nigeria’s finest mathematical minds.