Math
For the first time in its history, Malawi is establishing a systematic pipeline to the world’s most prestigious mathematics competitions. Many countries have long used competitive mathematics to identify and cultivate future scientists, engineers, and innovators. Malawi is now launching its own tradition to ensure its youth will compete and excel on the world stage.
Malawi Launches Historic Pathway to the World’s Greatest Math Competitions
Mathematical talent is a direct engine for economic development. Research by economists Hanushek and Woessmann demonstrates that a nation’s performance in mathematics is a strong predictor of long-term GDP growth. By cultivating logical reasoning and quantitative sense, math competitions can equip Malawian youth with the analytical foundation necessary for engineering, tech innovation, and data-driven governance.
Joining a Global Tradition
In 2026, three storied international math traditions will arrive on Malawian soil:
Kangaroo Math: The world’s largest math competition. Founded in Australia in the 1980s, today it has 6-7 million students competing across 100 countries. The competition covers all grades, starting with Grade 1.
Pan-African Math Olympiad (PAMO): The premier continental stage. To date, Malawi has earned only one medal in PAMO history back in 2013 — a record we are aiming to break. This year, the PAMO will be held in Abidjan, Cote d’Ivoire. This competition focuses on high school.
International Math Olympiad (IMO): The "World Cup" of mathematics. It has over one hundred years of history, originating in Eastern Europe in the 19th century, followed by strong participation from Russia and the USA since the 1930s, and Asia since the 1960s. This competition also focuses on high school. Our long-term goal is to prepare promising youth in Sub-Saharan Africa to compete at this highest international stage.
The search for talent in Malawi is underway.
Throughout the second half of March 2026, a national Kangaroo Math competition has been launched across 18 secondary schools in the Northern, Central, and Southern regions.
In April 2026, Malawian finalists will earn sponsored opportunities to attend elite mathematics camps.
In June 2026, selected students will have the opportunity to travel internationally to represent their country at the Pan-African Math Olympiad in Côte d'Ivoire.
These experiences will connect them with the world’s top young problem-solvers while opening doors to global networks, scholarships, and leading universities.
This is more than a one-time event. It is the pilot for a permanent national institution. To ensure this tradition survives and grows, we call on parents, educators, and the government to support these students and cultivate appreciation for math and the problem-solving spirit. We have brought in international specialists to train local mentors and students in "Olympiad-style" mathematics—creative problem-solving rarely taught in standard curricula.
Partnerships
Our capacity-building work in Malawi is executed in Partnership with multiple outstanding organizations.
Ministry of Education: National oversight and strategic guidance, facilitating system-wide participation of schools and educators while integrating mathematics excellence initiatives into Malawi’s long-term strategy for strengthening STEM education and national human capital.
Fraternidade Sem Fronteiras (Ubuntu Nations): Official representative of Kangaroo Math in Malawi and pioneer of humanitarian educational initiatives, including the establishment of new schools and learning communities serving vulnerable populations.
African Olympiad Academy (AOA): Specialized training materials and advanced coaching programs to prepare students for high-level mathematics competitions, including the Pan-African Mathematics Olympiad and the International Mathematical Olympiad, operating across eight African countries.
QED Africa Foundation (QED): Strategic leadership, logistical coordination, and technical infrastructure, building mathematical capacities in youth to develop Malawi’s next generation of leaders in public health, agricultural development, and data-driven decision making.
To learn more about these contests, contact:
Lusayo Nyondo (lusayo@qed.ai)
Data Analyst, QED Africa Foundation
PAMO Bronze Medalist, Malawi 2013
Dr. William Wu (w@qed.ai)
Director, QED Africa Foundation
Evaldo Palatinsky (evaldo.palatinsky@fraternidadesemfronteiras.org.br)
Director of Ubuntu Nation School, Fraternidade Sem Fronteiras
