PNGUoT Students Excel in Pi Day Competitions, Showcase Diverse Talents
The Mathematics and Computer Science Staff and Student Association (MCSSSA) at the Papua New Guinea University of Technology (PNGUoT) successfully hosted a vibrant International Pi Day celebration. The event drew participation not only from students within the Mathematics and Computer Science departments but also from other schools, showcasing a shared passion for mathematics. Celebrated annually on March 14 (3/14), Pi Day honors the mathematical constant pi (Ï€), which represents the ratio of a circle’s circumference to its diameter. This day is marked globally by math enthusiasts to promote awareness and appreciation for mathematics.
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| PNGUoT Students Excel in Pi Day Competitions, Showcase Diverse Talents" [Photos by PNG Unitech] |
Pi Day was first established in 1988 and has since evolved into a worldwide phenomenon that includes educational activities, competitions, and discussions centered around mathematics. The MCSSSA event featured a variety of activities designed to celebrate and test mathematical skills in an engaging way. Competitions such as the Pi recitation challenge, chess, Sudoku, Pac-Man, Rubik's Cube, speed math, and other math-based games were highlights. For example, chess players applied logic and probability to calculate moves, while solving a Rubik's Cube required pattern recognition and algorithmic thinking.
Winners of the competitions were awarded prizes, recognizing their exceptional performances and dedication. Beyond academic challenges, the event included a karaoke session where students showcased their musical talents. This segment emphasized that talent extends beyond academics, with some students excelling in areas like singing despite not being top performers in their studies. Such activities highlighted the importance of celebrating diverse abilities and fostering a well-rounded student experience.
The highlight of the evening was the Pi recitation contest, where participants demonstrated remarkable memorization skills. Florence Palin, a third-year Applied Mathematics student, took first place by reciting 115 decimal places of pi. Jonah Margis, a second-year Applied Mathematics student, came in second with 106 decimal places, while Ismael Vai'i, a first-year Computer Science student, secured third place with 55 decimal places. Jacinta Rikar, also a first-year Computer Science student, placed fourth with 53 decimal places.
The success of the event was made possible by the generous support of sponsors Mr. Sarsoruo and Dr. Mohsen, who funded prizes for the Pi recitation contest. Their contributions added meaning to the celebration and encouraged participants. During the event, Mr. Sarsoruo delivered an insightful talk on the significance of pi and its practical applications in everyday life, reinforcing the relevance of mathematics beyond the classroom.
Special appreciation was extended to the judges of the Pi memorization contest, whose meticulous verification ensured the competition's integrity. The MCSSSA also expressed heartfelt gratitude to all Mathematics and Computer Science students, from first-year to final-year, who worked tirelessly to organize and execute the event. Their dedication was instrumental in making the celebration a resounding success. The event attracted a large audience, filling the room with energy and excitement as students from various schools engaged in spirited mathematical exploration.
Faculty members actively participated in discussions with students about mathematical concepts, making the occasion both educational and enjoyable. The MCSSSA’s Pi Day celebration exemplified how mathematics can unite people, fostering both academic excellence and community spirit. It served as a reminder of the universal language of mathematics and its ability to inspire collaboration and curiosity.
Looking ahead, the MCSSSA expressed enthusiasm about organizing more events to deepen students' appreciation for mathematics and its real-world applications. By hosting such initiatives, the association aims to continue inspiring students to explore the beauty and utility of mathematics, encouraging them to embrace it as a vital part of their academic and personal growth.
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