SMASE-IDK Mathematics Championship 2025 Ignites Passion for Numbers Among Anambra Students



By O’star Eze, Editor, FactReporters.com.ng

March 30, 2025, Awka, Anambra State


Over 400 pupils and students from more than 90 public and private schools across Anambra State’s 21 local government areas gathered at the IDK Learning Centre in Awka on Saturday, March 29, 2025, for the thrilling SMASE-IDK Anambra State Mathematics Championship 2025. The event, organized by the Strengthening Mathematics and Science Education (SMASE) program in partnership with Integral Development Konsult (IDK) Learning Centre under the leadership of Mrs. Chinwe Nweke, who invited schools from all 21 local government areas—though she acknowledged the notice was short—showcased the brilliance of young minds in three categories: junior (Primary 5-6), middle (JSS 2-3), and senior (SS 2-3). With laptops, trophies, medals, cash prizes, school bags, and exercise books as rewards, the championship tested mathematical skill while igniting a deeper passion for numbers.


Supported by prominent sponsors, including the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Prof. Solo Chukwulobelu, who donated a laptop, and local government mayors, the event buzzed with excitement. The Onitsha North Mayor sponsored 10 students and pupils from public schools in his local government council (LGC), while the Anaocha Mayor backed seven from public schools in his LGC, broadening participation. Every participant walked away with exercise books, while primary pupils tackled written exercises and secondary students faced a Computer-Based Test (CBT) format.


_Champions Shine Bright Across Categories_


The competition crowned three exceptional winners:


Junior Category (Primary 5-6): Ridge Valley Academy’s star pupil emerged victorious. In an initial round, five pupils scored an impressive 98%, and after a second test where all achieved 100%, a third exercise confirmed Ridge Valley’s champion.


Middle Category (JSS 2-3): Aniekwe Chidiebere of Divine Rays British Academy dazzled as the winner, showcasing remarkable skill.


Senior Category (SS 2-3): Seventeen-year-old Ezugwu Prisca of Loretto Special Science School, Adazi-Nnukwu, claimed the top spot. Speaking to journalists, Prisca attributed her triumph to relentless practice and her teacher’s mentorship, vowing to pursue Medicine and Surgery.


_A Vision to Elevate Mathematics Education_


Mrs. Chinwe Nweke, CEO of IDK Learning Centre, hailed the championship as the first phase of a bold initiative to strengthen mathematics education in Anambra. “We’re preparing our students for national and international competitions,” she said. Beyond the winners, IDK will select up to 10 students per category for advanced coaching by Sir Mayor Austin Okeke—SMASE coordinator, World Mathematics Competition overseer, and a fellow of the Mathematical Association of Nigeria—gearing them up for global stages.


Sir Mayor Okeke emphasized the program’s transformative potential: “Our goal is to grow mathematics proficiency. Struggling students and teachers should turn to IDK, where we simplify learning with innovative methods.” He urged primary schools to send teachers for training and students preparing for exams to seek IDK’s support.


_Voices of Support and Suggestions_


Teachers and headmistresses lauded the championship. Samson Idakwoji of St. Paul’s Seminary, Igbariam, called for specialized math teachers in primary schools, while Mrs. Ngozi of Ado Girls Secondary School, Onitsha, echoed the need for more contests. Mrs. Alison Victoria of Greater Heights Academy, Awka, said such events dispel myths of mathematics as abstract, sparking student interest. Anyaoku Onyema Evans (QRC) suggested refining the online registration process, and Okeke Magnus Nnamdi (Gran Hermano Academy) urged meticulous question vetting to avoid errors.


_Challenges Met with Resilience_


Mrs. Nweke highlighted sponsorship woes: “We reached out to all 21 LGC mayors, but only Onitsha North and Anaocha responded though the notice was short.” To bridge the gap, IDK offered free registration for public schools, fed participants twice, and awarded cash alongside laptops, medals, and trophies. Dr. Mrs. Bibiana Okoli oversaw prize distribution, with the SSG’s laptop donation underscoring government backing.


_A Mathematical Renaissance in Anambra_


The SMASE-IDK Mathematics Championship 2025 celebrated excellence and laid a foundation for Anambra’s rise in national and international mathematics arenas. With champions like Prisca, Chidiebere, and Ridge Valley’s finest leading the charge, and IDK’s unwavering commitment, the state is set to nurture a new wave of number wizards. As Sir Mayor Okeke put it, “IDK is here for Anambra’s good”—a vision vividly realized on Saturday.








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