Abu Dhabi University launches the “2014 National Mathematics Competition”

Abu Dhabi University

More than 100 high school and university students competed for the first three places in the “2014 National Mathematics Competition” on Abu Dhabi University’s Al Ain Campus. Organized by ADU’s College of Arts and Sciences, in its second year the “2014 National Mathematics Competition” attracted 11th and 12th graders from 21 schools and students from 5 universities in a bid to raise awareness about the importance of mathematics and its applications in practical life. The competition also aimed to encourage student participants to develop their skills in critical thinking and the analysis of mathematical problems in a creative way.

Giving the welcome address, Dr. Radwan Al Jarrah Dean of Abu Dhabi University’s College of Arts and Sciences explained that the University’s keenness in organizing the competition for a second year in a row as it has attracted so many students from schools and universities from across the UAE. “It’s a great opportunity to spread awareness on the importance of mathematical sciences, and it enhances students’ analytical and critical thinking skills and encourages them to approach solutions to mathematical problems creatively. It also allows us to share with them our celebrations with Abu Dhabi University’s 10th year anniversary”, said Dr. Al Jarrah.

After instructing the participating students on the rules and regulations of the competition, Dr. Fares Howari Chair of Applied Sciences and Mathematics in ADU’s College of Arts and Sciences, pointed out that the competition received a large turnout in its second year, increasing the number of participating students from 70 last year to a 100 this year. He added: “This growth emphasizes ADU’s success in promoting the importance of mathematics and its applications as well as gives us the opportunity to instill the love of science within students”.

On his part, Dr. Sofiane Grira Assistant Professor of Mathematics and Statistics and organizer of the “2014 National Mathematics Competition” asserted that the large participation from students refutes the misconception that mathematics is an unpopular science amongst students in general. “It allows us as educators to enhance awareness on the different applications of mathematics in our daily lives. Especially as the competition, which was held online, included questions that covered algebra, calculus, probability, logic and geometry over two rounds. All participating teams took part in the first round competing against each other, after which only the top teams from three universities and 10 schools qualified to the second and final round”, added Dr. Griria.

The top three teams in the final round, and winners of the first, second and third place respectively were chosen according to rules that listed a university was to be chosen in first place and schools in second and third. The winners of the 2014 National Mathematics Competition are: the Falcons from New York University, AJ Rhinos from Al Ain Junior school, and the Enthusiasts from Liwa International School.