Learners Show Teamwork and Skill in National Mathematics Contest

The South African Mathematics Foundation (SAMF), in partnership with the Actuarial Society of South Africa (ASSA), is proud to announce the winners of the 2025 ASSA South African Mathematics Team Competition (SAMTC). This annual contest brings together the country’s most promising young mathematicians to evaluate their critical thinking skills in a spirit of teamwork and excellence. This year, 150 teams from 28 regions took part in the SAMTC, compared to 85 teams from 19 regions last year.

In the Junior Division, the Boland 1 team claimed first place. Their remarkable performance secured them the top spot ahead of Western Province 1 and Siyanqoba Wits 1.

Boland 1 team members:

Olivia Castleden, Grade 9, Somerset College (Team Captain)

Samuel Adendorff, Grade 9, Hoërskool Parel Vallei

Louis Bosman, Grade 8, Somerset College

Jonathan Coolen, Grade 9, Paul Roos Gimnasium

Dylan Karovsky, Grade 8, Wolson Home School

Ethan McGregor, Grade 9, Somerset College

Prioshun Munideum, Grade 9, Hoërskool Parel Vallei

Nicolas Roberts-Meyer, Grade 9, Somerset College

Dirk van Daalen, Grade 8, Curro Somerset West High School

Ruben van Niekerk, Grade 9, Paarl Boys’ High School

Dr Liam Baker – University of Stellenbosch (coach)

In the Senior Division, the honours went to Western Province 1, who earned first place. They were followed by Western Province 2 and AMESA Durban 1.

Western Province 1 team members:

Youkyum Kim, Grade 12, Reddam House Durbanville (Team Captain)

Joshua Barham-Smith, Grade 12, Reddam House Constantia

James Chu, Grade 12, Edgemead High School

Geoffrey Dickson, Grade 12, South African College High School

Ellen Grant-Smith, Grade 12, Westerford High School

Matthew Griffin, Grade 12, Bishops Diocesan College

Tsz Lok Pun, Grade 10, Elkanah House High School

Noah Rassou, Grade 11, South African College High School

Ruth Trimble, Grade 11, Pinelands High School

Eli Williams, Grade 11, Westerford High School

Dr Thomas van Heerden – University of Cape Town (coach)

The SAMTC, previously known as the Inter-Provincial Mathematics Olympiad, has been challenging learners since 1990 to apply advanced mathematical thinking and collaborate under pressure, highlighting the power of teamwork in problem-solving. For many participants, this competition is a crucial step in their journey towards representing South Africa at international mathematics contests.

Speaking after the announcement of the results, SAMF Executive Director Prof Seithuti Moshokoa congratulated all the teams: “The SAMTC highlights the depth of mathematical talent across South Africa. These learners have worked hard, and their achievements are a testament to the support of their teachers, coaches, and schools. We are excited to see how their passion for mathematics will shape their future paths.”

The Foundation thanks ASSA and all participating schools, teachers, and volunteers for their continued commitment to growing a culture of mathematics excellence in South Africa.

Western Province 1 Team Members