Lesotho Students Shine at Pan African Mathematics Olympiad Despite Challenges

The Lesotho Science and Mathematics Teachers Association (LSMTA) has proudly announced the results of six students who represented Lesotho at the prestigious Pan African Mathematics Olympiad (PAMO) held recently in Botswana.

In an interview, Mr. Keketso Leteba of LSMTA revealed that the students returned home safely after a remarkable competition. Despite facing a tight preparation timeline, the team secured 20th place among 23 competing African countries, demonstrating resilience and determination in a highly competitive field.

“It was not an easy journey given the limited time to prepare, but our students showed great commitment,” said Leteba. He expressed pride in their efforts, noting that although the team did not win any medals, the experience provided invaluable exposure. The students had the opportunity to interact with peers from across the continent, gaining insights into their own strengths and areas for improvement.

This exposure, Leteba explained, is crucial for future development. “PAMO is not just a competition; it’s a platform for growth and learning in Mathematics. We have identified our weaknesses and are motivated to overcome them moving forward,” he added.

Among the participating countries, South Africa led the pack, followed closely by Tunisia, Ivory Coast, and Senegal, who all performed exceptionally well.

The LSMTA remains committed to nurturing young mathematicians and looks forward to continued participation in future Olympiads, confident that these experiences will inspire greater achievements in Lesotho’s scientific and mathematical communities.