The Faculty of Natural Sciences and Mathematics (FCNM) at ESPOL inaugurated the 2026–2027 academic cycle of the Mathematical Talent Development Project (ESTALMAT) – Guayas Branch during a ceremony held on June 13 at the STEM Auditorium.
The event brought together students, parents, faculty members, and academic authorities to welcome the program’s new participants. ESTALMAT is an initiative designed to identify and support students with strong mathematical abilities through educational activities that complement their regular schooling while fostering logical reasoning and problem-solving skills.
The ceremony featured the participation of Dr. María Nela Pastuizaca, Associate Dean of FCNM; M.Sc. Jennifer Avilés, Coordinator of ESTALMAT – Guayas Branch; M.Ed. Andrés Pérez, representative of the Ecuadorian Corporation for the Development of Research and Academia (CEDIA); and Dr. Mireya Bracamonte, Coordinator of FCNM’s Mathematics Program.
During their remarks, the speakers emphasized the importance of creating opportunities that nurture mathematical talent from an early age and recognized the essential role that families and teachers play in this educational journey.
In this context, Dr. María Nela Pastuizaca highlighted the value of the program in introducing students to mathematics from a different perspective.
“What excites me most about ESTALMAT is that it gives students the opportunity to approach mathematics in a different way. It is a space that sparks curiosity, encourages them to take on new challenges, and demonstrates that, through effort and dedication, it is possible to discover the full potential within each individual,” she said.
Likewise, Andrés Pérez, representative of CEDIA, noted that the initiative provides students with an environment where they can develop their abilities and strengthen their interests.
“Young people have the opportunity to grow by doing what they enjoy, in an environment that values their interests and encourages their development,” he stated.
This year, 23 students joined the fifth cohort of ESTALMAT – Guayas Branch after successfully completing an evaluation process designed to identify outstanding mathematical aptitude and potential. During the ceremony, they received their welcome kits and officially began their participation in the two-year program.
In addition, 19 students from the third cohort received certificates recognizing the successful completion of this stage of their training. The recognition highlighted the dedication and perseverance they demonstrated throughout their participation in the project.
The program also included the presentation of a video showcasing experiences and activities carried out by students from previous cohorts, as well as a group photograph with participants and attending authorities.
Originally established in Spain in 1998 with the support of the Royal Academy of Exact, Physical and Natural Sciences and the Spanish National Research Council (CSIC), ESTALMAT offers a two-year educational program with biweekly sessions designed to strengthen participants’ mathematical skills without interfering with their regular academic studies.
FCNM actively participates in this initiative alongside CEDIA, the institution responsible for promoting ESTALMAT in Ecuador. Since 2019, the program has been present in the provinces of Guayas, Azuay, and Chimborazo, providing complementary educational opportunities for students with an interest in mathematics.
Through its participation in this program, ESPOL’s Faculty of Natural Sciences and Mathematics reaffirms its commitment to promoting initiatives that foster scientific vocations and strengthen mathematics education throughout the country.
