Little Einsteins shine at international maths competition
SANDTON - Maria and Sarah Varghese achieved bronze at the 2013 Pan Pacific Abacus and Mental Arithmetic Competition in Hong Kong.
The youngsters, who are members of Soroban Education and Mental Arithmetic System in Bryanston, were selected by Pan Pacific Abacus and Mental Arithmetic South Africa based on their current class level, age and national competition results. Maria (11) and Sarah (9) were two of the 12 South African youngsters who received bronze medals.
“I’m so proud of my girls,” said the girls mother, Anna. “I wanted to develop their maths skills from a young age. I wanted them to experience mathematics in a fun way.” The girls attend classes every Saturday morning and they take part in other activities to keep a good balance. “They enjoy music and ballet. Sarah is more into athletics,” she added. Anna first introduced the girls to the world of mathematics from pre-primary school. “The programme has helped them develop a relationship with maths and I think this is important,” said Anna.
A total of 21 young South African children represented their country at the competition. They won one gold medal and eight silver medals.
“This is the best performance South African students have ever achieved over the past five years,” said Manisha Ramlakhan of Soroban Education and Mental Arithmetic System in Bryanston.
Details: Soroban Education and Mental Arithmetic System South Africa; www.semas.co.za
