By Burnett Munthali
Blantyre, Malawi – In a strong show of support for STEM education, Old Mutual Malawi has provided K34 million in sponsorship to Mzuzu University for the upcoming 2025 Old Mutual Mathematics Olympiad. The announcement was made during a handover ceremony held in Blantyre, where Old Mutual reaffirmed its commitment to fostering mathematics as a crucial component of national development.
Old Mutual Malawi’s Marketing and Corporate Affairs Executive, Patience Chatsika, emphasized the company’s dedication to promoting mathematics and STEM subjects, describing them as key drivers of progress and innovation. “This marks the 9th year since the Olympiad was resuscitated, and it speaks volumes about our commitment to advancing STEM subjects, including Science, Technology, and Mathematics in Malawi,” Chatsika said during her remarks.
The annual Olympiad, hosted by Mzuzu University, is a competition targeting Form Four students from secondary schools nationwide. It aims to identify, challenge, and nurture mathematically gifted students while fostering a culture of collaboration among mathematics educators. This year’s sponsorship will help facilitate a range of activities, from preparatory workshops to national competitions, with the goal of building a strong foundation in mathematics across Malawi’s educational landscape.
Chatsika noted that Old Mutual’s sponsorship goes beyond the competition itself; it is part of a broader strategy to inspire future leaders in STEM fields who can address Malawi’s economic and developmental challenges. “By encouraging young minds to engage in mathematics, we are investing in a generation that can create solutions, innovate, and contribute to national growth,” she said.
Since its revival nine years ago, the Old Mutual Mathematics Olympiad has become an eagerly anticipated event, helping to raise the profile of mathematics among young Malawians. Through this initiative, Old Mutual aims to support the aspirations of talented students and inspire a deep-rooted interest in STEM subjects, ultimately paving the way for a more skilled and capable workforce.
Mzuzu University expressed gratitude to Old Mutual for its continued support, noting that the Olympiad has significantly impacted students and teachers alike. The university highlighted that the Olympiad not only sharpens students’ mathematical skills but also encourages collaboration, problem-solving, and critical thinking—skills that are vital in today’s complex world.
As the 2025 Olympiad approaches, Old Mutual Malawi and Mzuzu University are committed to building an environment where young minds can thrive in mathematics, driving the nation closer to its STEM-related goals.
