Kavango East school celebrates return of maths hero

Namibian star maths performer and Grade 11 learner Anton Kanyanga (16) received a warm welcome back at Matumbo Angelina Ribebe Secondary School in Kavango East last Friday, following his return from two prestigious international mathematics competitions.Kanyanga celebrated his 17th birthday this past Sunday. The young learner competed at the Pan-African Mathematics Olympiad (PAMO) from 8 to 18 June in Gaborone, Botswana, before proceeding to Queensland, Australia, for the International Mathematics Olympiad (IMO) from 10 to 20 July. Following his performance at PAMO, Kanyanga was awarded a three-year scholarship by the African Olympiad Academy and is set to leave for Rwanda in September, where he will be matriculating under this programme.Speaking to Ewi lyaNooli last Friday, Kanyanga described the format and intensity of the competitions.“We were given three questions each day for two days, with four and a half hours per session. These are difficult problems, even professors take days to solve them,” he explained.“In Australia, the experience was more than just competing. I got to interact with people from many countries and learn new perspectives.”Determination and curiosity Kanyanga’s interest in maths grew after a difficult Grade 8 paper had challenged him.“That paper stayed with me. I told myself I’d finish the Grade 8, 9 and 10 textbooks to understand everything. That effort led me to seek out more learning materials, and I haven’t stopped since.”His sister, Ester Kanyanga, also spoke to this publication last Friday.“This achievement brought joy to our family and the entire school community. I’ve always supported him, even when teachers needed parental involvement. I’m proud of what he’s done,” she said.Patience and humour Jacop Kanganzi, Kanyanga’s proud maths teacher and mentor, said the achievement was the result of consistent effort.“When Mr Chilala wasn’t available, I stepped in to assist with coaching. Anton would come in early and use the laptop for practice and research while others were resting,” Kanganzi said. “His work ethic made the difference.”Kanganzi encouraged fellow educators to make mathematics more engaging. “This subject is often seen as difficult, but if we teach it with patience and some humour, learners will respond. Hard work pays, and this is proof.”phillipus@nmh-hub.com.na

Kavango East school celebrates return of maths hero

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Namibian Sun 2025-11-04

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Kavango East school celebrates return of maths hero

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Namibian Sun 2025-11-04

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