MathFest for GCE A/L students at SLIIT University on Aug. 26

Head of Department of Mathematics and Statistics Faculty of Humanities and Sciences, SLIIT

Mathematics develops the flexible thinking and creativity of the students. It is a significant part of human logic and thoughts which provides an effective way to create mental discipline. Mathematical knowledge plays an essential role in understanding the concept of other subjects and it is known as the queen of all sciences. Mathematics is considered an essential entity in our everyday life. Mathematical thinking involves analytical thinking, creative thinking, problem-solving, logical reasoning and providing proof.

G.C.E.(O/L) is the first national examination in Sri Lanka where students’ level of mathematical knowledge is measured.

Figure 1 shows that the percentage of pass rate in Mathematics in G. C. E. (O/L) has increased over the years.

Figure 2 – depicts that the percentage of students qualifying for G.C.E.(A/L) has also increased over the years for both physical science and engineering technology.

However, the rate of passing may not be due purely to analytical and logical thinking. Various external factors may influence the rate of pass. Therefore, the Department of Mathematics and Statistics (DMS) decided to hold a mathematics competition among GCE (A/L) physical science students. In fact, DMS has already started a unique degree in B Sc (Hons) in Financial Mathematics and Applied Statistics to produce actuaries as there has been a dearth of actuaries in all the counties (https://www.sliit.lk/humanities-sciences/).

Objectives of the MathFest are: – To develop analytical and logical thinking in solving mathematical problems.

To let students enjoy the intellectual obstacles that arise in tackling Math problems and to let them feel the excitement of it.

The competition has received approval from the Ministry of Education to bring students from different school backgrounds by allowing them to meet and compete against each other.

This competition is open to national and provincial Type 1AB schools, Private and International schools in the Colombo Education Zone (CEZ). Each school can submit only one team consisting of four students. The first round of the competition is based on computer-based multiple-choice questions for one hour.

Six teams will be selected for the second round. The second round will be based on essay type question paper for one hour. The winning team will receive SLITT MathFest Trophy and the three winning teams will receive special awards too. A certificate is issued for all participants.

The closing date for registration is August 24. More details could be obtained from https://www.sliit.lk/mathfest/.

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