Since joining the International Maths Olympiad in Germany in 1974, Vietnamese students have brought home 213 medals, including 52 gold, 94 silver and 67 bronze medals.

In particular, nine gold medallists went on to win gold medals in successive competitions, while six others achieved the maximum number of points.

These achievements were honoured in a ceremony held in Hanoi on September 14, organised by the Vietnam Mathematical Society and the National Programme for Mathematics Development, to celebrate 40 years of Vietnamese participation in the IMO.

The event paid tribute to the IMO medallists, students and teachers who contributed to the development of maths in Vietnam over the years, while encouraging more students to study the subject.

Addressing the event, President of the Vietnam Fatherland Front’s Central Committee Nguyen Thien Nhan said Vietnam’s participation in 38 competitions so far had led to the discovery of numerous maths talents, who showed off Vietnam’s mathematical aptitude to the world, naming Ngo Bao Chau, Dam Thanh Son, Vu Ha Van as a few.

Meanwhile, Deputy Minister of Education and Training Nguyen Vinh Hien said Vietnam’s successes in the competition over the past four decades reflected the progress made in education in Vietnam.

He said the ministry would continue to develop policies that enhance the quality of math’s teaching, thus contributing to even better results in the future.-VNA