In a groundbreaking celebration of mathematical innovation and creativity, Khon Kaen University, in collaboration with the Institute for Research and Development in Teaching Profession for ASEAN, the Center for Research in Mathematics Education, the Thailand Society of Mathematics Education, the Educational Foundation for Development of Thinking Skills, and the Moscow Center for Continuous Mathematical Education, organized the 6th Thailand MATHEMATICS FESTIVAL on December 23, 2024. The event was held at the Institute for Research and Development in Teaching Profession for ASEAN, Khon Kaen University, as part of a partnership between Russia and Thailand.
A Meeting of Mathematical Minds
The festival, hosted at the Institute for Research and Development in Teaching Profession for ASEAN, was brought to life through an impressive collaboration of leading educational institutions. The event drew special distinction with the presence of H.E. Mr. Evgeny Tomikhin, the Russian Ambassador to Thailand, who shared a powerful vision of mathematics as the cornerstone of civilization’s progress.
The opening ceremony showcased a gathering of educational luminaries, with Dr. Phumiphat Ruanglae, Assistant Secretary-General of the Office of Education Council, officially launching the festival. Asst. Prof. Dr. Phongthanat Sae-Joo, Director of the Institute for Research and Development in Teaching Profession for ASEAN, delivered a warm welcome address, while Assoc. Prof. Dr. Maitree Inprasitha, President of the Thailand Society of Mathematics Education, Chairman of the Educational Foundation for Development of Thinking Skills, and founder of the Institute for Research and Development in Teaching Profession for ASEAN, provided valuable insights into the festival’s significance.
Breaking the Mathematics Stereotype
“Mathematics is far from boring,” declared Assoc. Prof. Dr. Maitree Inprasitha, challenging traditional perceptions. The festival proved this point through its dynamic program of activities. At the heart of the event was the Math Feast Olympiad (MFO), an innovative problem-solving competition that pushed boundaries and sparked creativity among participants.
Students eagerly rotated through four interactive game stations, each designed to challenge and inspire. They tackled the mysterious Magic Triangle, conquered GENMATH Junior Genius challenges, strategized in Bulls and Cows games, and solved mind-bending Pentomino puzzles. The experience was further enriched by a captivating lecture from Assoc. Prof. Ivan Vysotskiy from Moscow, who shared insights that left students spellbound.
A Festival of Numbers and Knowledge
The event created a vibrant tapestry of mathematical enthusiasm, bringing together 330 eager middle school students, 63 dedicated educators and parents, and 153 passionate university students who organized the activities. Fifteen distinguished guests and academics added their expertise to this remarkable gathering, creating a total attendance of 561 participants.
A Vision for the Future
H.E. Mr. Evgeny Tomikhin’s words resonated throughout the event: “Russia’s mathematical excellence meets Thai enthusiasm in this unique collaboration.” This sentiment was echoed by Dr. Phumiphat Ruanglae, who praised the event’s role in inspiring the next generation of mathematical thinkers.
Building on a 40-year tradition from Moscow, the Thailand MATHEMATICS FESTIVAL promises to return annually, offering Thai students continued opportunities to explore the fascinating world of mathematics. This celebration isn’t just about numbers – it’s about discovering the beauty, creativity, and endless possibilities that mathematics offers to young minds.
For those inspired by this year’s success, the festival will return at the end of next year, promising another exciting chapter in this mathematical journey. The Thailand MATHEMATICS FESTIVAL stands as a testament to how mathematics can be transformed from a challenging subject into an exciting adventure of discovery, continuing to bridge cultures and inspire young minds through the universal language of numbers.
