#National News

Pleroma student wins Africell ‘Mother of Mathematics’ contest

Dec 4, 2025, 1:15 PM

A pupil from Pleroma Lower Basic School has emerged champion of the second edition of the Africell‑sponsored multiplication competition, Mother of Mathematics (COMMOM), held on Saturday at the GTU Hon. Baboucarr O. Joof Conference Centre in Brikama.

Kumba Sowe clinched first place in the presence of an audience of parents, teachers, and fellow pupils. Her victory was especially significant as she had finished second in the inaugural edition. “Everybody is a winner, as long as you are on this stage,” she said proudly after receiving her trophy, encouraging other pupils to keep striving for improvement.

Malang M. Kuyateh, a retired principal education officer, praised Take‑M for supporting the Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education’s efforts. He noted that many students fear mathematics, stressing the importance of mastering multiplication tables from grades 2 to 12. “This knowledge is crucial for children in managing and solving mathematical problems,” he said, adding that inter‑school competitions play a vital role in raising educational standards.

Judge Sainey Amie Badjie reminded participants that they were representing not only their schools but The Gambia as a whole.

Africell’s representative, MoLamin Gibba, expressed pride in sponsoring the event, highlighting the company’s commitment to education, sports, and agriculture. “Supporting initiatives that nurture future leaders is essential,” he said. Africell rewarded all contestants with mobile phones, while certificates were presented to participating schools and pupils.