More than 2,300 students from 12 provinces of Ecuador participated in April this year in the XXXII Mathematical Kangaroo Olympiad, the 20th edition in Ecuador, an experience that turned problem-solving into an opportunity to test ingenuity, creativity, and a passion for mathematics. On Friday, August 7, the Faculty of Natural Sciences and Mathematics (FCNM) at ESPOL held the closing and awards ceremony to recognize the students who achieved the best results.
The FCNM Auditorium filled with applause during this event, which brought together students, families, and tutors to celebrate the effort and dedication of those who participated in this edition. Although not all students were able to attend, every participant received recognition for being part of this experience.
In total, 2,344 students from 135 educational institutions across 12 provinces of Ecuador participated in the Initial, Elementary, Benjamin, Cadet, Junior, and Student categories. All participants received some form of recognition: certificates of participation, honorable mentions, or bronze, silver, and gold medals.
A different way to experience mathematics
The Mathematical Kangaroo Olympiad offers a different way of approaching this discipline. Rather than focusing solely on the final answer, it presents problems that encourage students to observe, reason, explore strategies, and discover solutions.
Originating in France, the competition has become one of the largest international student mathematics initiatives. Each year, it brings together approximately 5 million students from more than 110 countries, creating a community that shares an interest in mathematical thinking, ingenuity, and problem-solving.
Ecuador has been part of this community since 2006. In the country, the competition is organized by the Escuela Superior Politécnica del Litoral (ESPOL), through its Faculty of Natural Sciences and Mathematics, with six levels ranging from the first years of elementary education to the pre-university level.
Effort also deserves to be celebrated
During the awards ceremony on August 7, 60 honorable mentions, 42 bronze medals, 30 silver medals, and 18 gold medals were presented, in addition to the certificates of participation.
Behind every recognition lies a story of preparation, curiosity, and perseverance. Each problem represented a challenge and, at the same time, an opportunity to learn to think differently and not give up in the face of difficulties.
Beyond the numbers and medals, the Mathematical Kangaroo seeks to help children and young people discover that mathematics can also be a space to explore, create, and enjoy.
ESPOL, a stage for mathematical talent
With this 20th edition of the Mathematical Kangaroo in Ecuador, the Faculty of Natural Sciences and Mathematics at ESPOL reaffirms its commitment to mathematics education and the development of logical and creative thinking.
By organizing this competition, FCNM continues to create spaces that bring children and young people closer to new challenges, strengthen their interest in mathematics, and connect them with an international mathematical community.
Because when mathematics stops being just a subject and becomes a challenge to discover, talent, curiosity, and the desire to learn find new ways to grow.
Relive the best moments!
Thank you for joining us at the emotional closing and awards ceremony of the Mathematical Kangaroo Olympiad. Click the button to explore and download the official photographs from the event.
