By: Kanto
Kai Okanta
The National Commission on
Research, Science and Technology (NCRST) has officially launched the Namibia
Mathematics Olympiad Alumni Association (NMOAA), a new platform aimed at
connecting former Mathematics Olympiad participants and strengthening the country's
science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) ecosystem.
The Association was launched
during a ceremony held at the Roof of Africa Hotel and Conference Centre in
Windhoek. The event attracted more than 80 participants from government,
academia, the private sector, schools and alumni of the Namibia Mathematics
Olympiad.
The NMOAA has been
established to foster mentorship, peer learning, professional networking and
stronger collaboration between former Olympiad participants, academic
institutions and industry. The initiative is expected to help sustain
engagement among alumni while supporting the development of future generations
of young mathematicians and scientists.
The Association was
officially launched by Hon. Dr. Sanet Steenkamp, who encouraged alumni to apply
their knowledge and skills toward Namibia's national development. She also
urged learners to participate in mathematics competitions, describing them as valuable
opportunities for developing critical thinking, analytical skills and
problem-solving abilities.
The launch also celebrated
the achievements and legacy of the Namibia Mathematics Olympiad, which has
served as a platform for identifying and nurturing mathematical talent across
the country. Alumni shared personal experiences highlighting how participation
in the programme had shaped their academic and professional journeys.
NCRST said the establishment
of the Alumni Association marks an important milestone in expanding the
long-term impact of the Namibia Mathematics Olympiad by creating a network that
will continue to support talent development, knowledge sharing and collaboration
beyond the competition itself.
The Commission also extended
its best wishes to Team Namibia as it prepares to represent the country at the
2026 Pan African Mathematics Olympiad (PAMO) in Côte d'Ivoire, where some of
Africa's brightest young mathematicians will compete in the continental
competition.
