Over 350 children from 30 African countries participated in a high-energy arithmetic contest focused on the ancient Chinese abacus technique.
On Saturday, October 18, Kigali hosted the 2nd Shenmo Africa Cup Abacus Mental Math Olympiad, attracting over 350 children from 30 African countries. This fast-paced competition tested the arithmetic skills of participants aged 4 to 14, utilizing the ancient Chinese abacus technique.
The event featured both written and listening rounds, challenging young minds to solve complex calculations rapidly, without the aid of calculators or pencils. The competition aimed to enhance memory, focus, and brain development, while also providing a platform for cultural exchange and academic excellence.
Top Performers Shine
In the listening round, Rwanda’s Ragad Maki Abdallah from Mother Mary International School Complex emerged as the top performer, demonstrating remarkable speed and precision in solving problems. Meanwhile, the best written exam score in Level One was achieved by Mahmoud Jaiah Ridwan Samakwe of Al-Hikmah Islamic Montessori School in Ghana.
A total of 48 participants were recognized as top performers, and all children received prizes, celebrating both excellence and participation in the competition.
Significance of the Event
Claudette Irere, the Minister of State in the Ministry of Education, highlighted the importance of hosting such an international math competition in Rwanda. She noted that it marks a significant milestone for the country, especially after recently adopting the abacus method under the Shenmo Education Group.
“It’s a pleasure to see this competition happening in Rwanda. Watching children actively apply what they’ve learned, while having fun and competing with peers from across the world, is powerful. It builds their confidence, focus, and mental agility,” Irere stated.
She emphasized the relevance of these teaching methods, which align with Rwanda’s educational curriculum. The ancient mental arithmetic technique, often referred to as “gymnastics of the brain,” is designed to enhance children’s concentration and listening skills.
Expanding Educational Opportunities
Irere also advocated for the expansion of similar competitions beyond mathematics, suggesting the introduction of spelling bees or typing contests to foster well-rounded learners. This approach could further engage students and enhance their academic experiences.
Michael Lee, the founder of the Shenmo International Education Programme based in Beijing, explained the enduring appeal of the abacus. He noted that it effectively transitions learners from tangible to mental arithmetic, allowing children to develop a mental image of the abacus for quicker calculations.
“Children begin with the physical beads, which make learning concrete and fun. But once they master the tool, they develop a mental image of the abacus, allowing them to calculate quickly and confidently without using it. That’s why it has survived for centuries,” Lee elaborated.
Parental Support and Student Experiences
Bernard Urayeneza, a parent of a participating student, expressed strong support for the Shenmo Mental Math Abacus Competition. He noted its positive impact on his child’s learning and the broader perception of mathematics among young learners.
“Math is often seen as one of the hardest subjects, but this kind of training helps children overcome that fear. They learn to calculate mentally and do it faster, which boosts their confidence and performance,” Urayeneza remarked.
Diella Ruziga, an eight-year-old student from Glory Academy, shared her excitement about the competition. Having started using the abacus at the age of seven, she described the experience as a fun and rewarding way to apply her skills.
“I felt confident that I would win. The competition was good, and it’s going to help me solve math problems faster whenever they come my way,” Ruziga said, highlighting the confidence boost she gained from participating.
The Shenmo Africa Cup Abacus Mental Math Olympiad not only showcased the talents of young mathematicians but also fostered a spirit of camaraderie and cultural exchange among participants from across the continent.
Key Points
- Over 350 children from 30 African countries participated in the competition.
- Rwanda's Ragad Maki Abdallah and Ghana's Mahmoud Jaiah Ridwan Samakwe were top performers.
- The event aimed to enhance memory, focus, and brain development through the abacus technique.
- Minister Claudette Irere emphasized the significance of hosting the competition in Rwanda.
- Parents and students expressed strong support for the abacus training and its impact on learning.
Sources: Rwandan, Ghanaian youngsters beat hundreds at abacus math competition in Kigali
