Success of the National Mathematics Contest boosts interest in science in Peru.

The recent National Mathematics Competition has highlighted not only the talent of the young participants but also the growing interest in sciences in the country. With participation from over 29,000 schoolchildren, this event has grown by almost 600% compared to its first edition, reflecting a significant advancement in promoting mathematics among Peruvian students. The competition, organized by the National Council of Science, Technology, and Technological Innovation (Concytec) and Aceros Arequipa, has provided a platform for students to showcase their skills and knowledge in a discipline crucial for their academic development and professional future. Renato Gaitán, a fifth-year secondary school student from the Prolog Educational Institution in Metropolitan Lima, took first place and a prize of S/50,000. His excitement was palpable during the awards ceremony, where he expressed gratitude for the opportunity. "I feel thrilled to win the competition and to meet people who are passionate about mathematics. This will help my future, and I am very grateful," he stated, revealing that part of his prize will be allocated to his university studies. This vision of investing in his education reflects a mindset that many young people should adopt, considering the importance of being well-prepared in an increasingly competitive world. The second place went to Alexis Lozano, a student from I.E. Unión in Junín, who received S/15,000 for his efforts. "I worked really hard, discovered a world I didn't know, and I thank the organization for such an incredible event," Lozano said, highlighting the enriching experience that participating in the competition represented. The competition not only rewarded the winners but also fostered a sense of community and collaboration among students from different regions of the country, all united by a shared passion: mathematics. The president of Concytec, Dr. Sixto Sánchez, emphasized the importance of initiatives like this for the development of a scientific culture among young people. "Promoting and developing a scientific culture is a goal we are working on with over 10,000 science and technology clubs nationwide," he highlighted during the award ceremony. This strategy aims not only to train future scientists and mathematicians but also to stimulate critical and analytical thinking in youth. The participation of public and private schools in the competition was notable, as all are part of the science and technology clubs registered by Concytec. The decentralization of these activities allows students from various regions of the country to access enriching educational experiences, contributing to a more equitable development in education. To date, over 100,000 primary and secondary students have benefited from these initiatives, demonstrating the positive impact that interest in sciences can have. Enthusiasm for mathematics and science is essential for the country's future. In a world where technology is advancing rapidly, knowledge in these areas becomes crucial for young people to face the labor challenges of tomorrow. Competitions like the National Mathematics Competition not only motivate students to learn but also open doors to educational and professional opportunities. The testimonies of the participants reflect a growing motivation to learn and improve. The opportunity to compete at a national level is an incentive that could inspire more students to engage in the fields of science and technology. The organization of the competition is a clear example of how collaboration between educational institutions and private companies can generate a positive impact on the training of future generations. The challenge now is to maintain this momentum and continue fostering interest in mathematics and sciences in every corner of the country. Collaboration between the public and private sectors is crucial to ensure that more young people have access to resources and opportunities that allow them to develop their skills. Investing in education and science is an investment in the future, and events like this competition are an excellent way to sow the seeds of success in Peruvian youth. The conclusion is clear: fostering a love for mathematics and sciences in schools is a task that involves everyone. With the active participation of students, parents, educators, and businesses, a conducive environment can be created for young people to develop their full potential, contributing to the country's growth and the formation of a more innovative and competitive society.