A Tribute to Alwyn Olivier

Alwyn Olivier’s journey in mathematics began somewhat unexpectedly. As a student who didn’t excel in the subject, his passion was ignited in Grade 12 when a new teacher made mathematics come alive for him. From that moment, everything started to make sense. His transformation from a hesitant student to someone who appreciated the beauty and power of pure mathematics highlights the vital role teachers play in shaping learners' futures. Alwyn's personal experience gave him a deep understanding of the impact a single teacher can have on a student’s outlook, inspiring his lifelong commitment to mathematics education. 

Throughout his distinguished career, Alwyn has been a cornerstone of the South African Mathematics Challenge (SAMC) since 1985. His contributions to the SAMF programmes reflect not just his technical expertise but his philosophical approach to mathematics education. For him, the SAMC was not merely a competition but a tool to develop learners' problem-solving skills and foster a deep, conceptual understanding of mathematics. He believed in the power of mathematics to promote independent, creative, and critical thinking in students, which became the guiding force behind his work on the SAMC Problem Committee. 

Alwyn’s passion for education extends beyond his formal roles. His dedication to teacher development is deeply rooted in his belief that effective teaching can interrupt the cycle of rote learning that dominates many classrooms. He has been instrumental in developing and promoting the SAMF’s Teacher Problem Solving Course, which aims to immerse teachers in problem-solving as a method for improving the quality of mathematics education. His workshops and mentoring have helped countless teachers break away from traditional, less effective methods and adopt a more dynamic and engaging approach to teaching mathematics. 

Though Alwyn’s resignation from the SAMC marks the end of an era, his legacy will undoubtedly live on through the programmes he shaped and the teachers and students he inspired. His work will continue to influence the development of mathematical skills in young South Africans for many years to come. 

Alwyn Olivier's commitment, vision, and passion have left an indelible mark on the South African mathematics education landscape, and we extend our deepest gratitude for his decades of service. We wish him every success in his continued focus on mathematics teacher development and look forward to seeing the impact he will undoubtedly continue to make.