The SAMOs Training Programme is the vehicle through which the South African Mathematics Foundation (SAMF) achieves its goal of nurturing mathematical talent and expanding the pool of mathematical excellence in South Africa. The programme is designed to develop talent from beginner to advanced level (international participation), providing them with the resources and training they need to excel in mathematics.

The SAMO Training Programme consists of three key "legs" that work together to support learners: the Siyanqoba Mathematics Olympiad Training Programme, Mathematics Olympiad Training Camps, and Assignments. Each leg is designed to equip learners with the advanced mathematical skills and mathematical problem-solving techniques necessary to succeed at the highest levels, including the Pan African Mathematics Olympiad (PAMO) and the International Mathematical Olympiad (IMO).

Benefits of the SAMO Mathematics Olympiad Training Programme for Learners

• Access to Advanced Mathematics Training: Learners are exposed to complex mathematical concepts and strategies that challenge their problem-solving abilities and prepare them for prestigious competitions.
• Personalised Support: Learners receive targeted feedback and guidance from experienced coaches, helping them identify strengths and areas for improvement.
• Pathway to International Recognition: Participation in the training programme opens doors to representing South Africa in international mathematics competitions, such as the Pan African Mathematics Olympiad (PAMO) and the International Mathematical Olympiad (IMO).
• Development of Critical Thinking Skills: The programme enhances learners' ability to think analytically, logically, and creatively—skills that are invaluable in academic and professional settings.
• Increased Confidence in Mathematics: By mastering advanced topics and solving high-level problems, learners gain confidence in their mathematical abilities, setting the stage for future academic success.

Siyanqoba Mathematics Olympiad Training Programme

The Siyanqoba Mathematics Olympiad Training Programme provides bi-weekly training at training centres mostly situated at universities. It aims to develop talent which has been identified through the South African Mathematics Olympiad. It is designed to help learners improve their learning of mathematics and in particular to develop higher order thinking skills and problem-solving techniques.

The training centres follow a standardised curriculum designed by emeritus Professor Poobhalan Pillay, the Academic Coordinator of the programme.

Mathematics Olympiad Training Camps

The annual training camps are held in April and December, bringing together the highest-achieving learners identified from the third round of South African Mathematics Olympiad. These camps are intensive and are used to select the South African teams for the Pan African Mathematics Olympiad (PAMO) and the International Mathematical Olympiad (IMO). The Academic Coordinator for the advanced level training (i.e. the camps and assignments) is Dr Liam Baker.

Assignments

Assignments form an essential component of the SAMO Mathematics Olympiad Training Programme, allowing learners to apply their newly acquired knowledge in practical, real-world scenarios. These assignments are tailored to be both challenging and enriching, often aligned with the types of problems encountered in the PAMO and IMO. Based on the learners' performance in these assignments, SAMF identifies those who are ready to advance to the next level of training and competition.