The Ministry of Education, Skills, Youth and Information will be engaging schools in a wide range of Mathematics-focused activities in March, as the Ministry observes National Mathematics Month under the theme ‘Mathematics for All: Building Communities, Confidence, Competence, and Creativity’.
National Mathematics Coordinator at the Ministry, Dr. Lorna Thompson, told JIS News that the initiative reflects a renewed national focus on strengthening student engagement and recovery in Mathematics, following the disruption to learning caused by the recent hurricane.
She noted that the activities form part of a broader national effort to enhance Jamaica’s Mathematics culture and profile.
“These activities are aligned with the National Standards Curriculum and are designed to increase enthusiasm and positive attitudes toward Mathematics, support conceptual understanding and skills mastery, improve student performance and confidence, and promote problem-solving, critical thinking, and real-world application,” Dr. Thompson explained.
Suggested activities for the Month include Mathematics quiz competitions, ring games, board games, pageants, comic strips, creative performances such as dub, poems, songs, and dances, as well as Mathematics dominoes, chess, fairs, and problem-solving challenges.
These are expected to engage both students and teachers, fostering a vibrant Mathematics culture across the island.
The highlight of the month will be Mathematics Hat and Tie Day on Friday, March 13, where each education region has been assigned a specific Mathematics strand to inspire creativity.
Regions will showcase concepts in Algebra, Geometry, Measurement, Numbers, Statistics, and Probability through innovative hat and tie designs, featuring symbols, formulas, vocabulary, and real-life applications.
Schools are encouraged to involve students in hands-on, concept-based learning experiences that make Mathematics meaningful, interactive, and enjoyable.
Administrators are also asked to ensure that information about the month of activities is widely shared with students, parents, and teachers to support broad participation.
In addition to the national events, schools are invited to plan supplementary Mathematics-focused activities throughout the month, drawing on resources from the Mathematics Interest Building Handbook, which forms part of the National Comprehensive Numeracy Programme.
Meanwhile, The University of the West Indies (UWI), Mona Campus, will host the first round of the Mathematics Olympiad and, in collaboration with Rusea’s High School in Hanover, will stage a Mathematics Fair. In addition, several schools across the island have designated individual Mathematics Day celebrations.
To further support these initiatives, the Ministry has introduced a Mathematics Affirmation Calendar, encouraging students to practice daily positive affirmations. This effort aims to help reduce math anxiety, while building confidence, resilience, and a stronger appreciation for the subject.
The Ministry remains committed to ensuring that Mathematics Month 2026 serves as a catalyst for renewed energy, creativity, and excellence in Mathematics education, as Jamaica continues to strengthen its education system in the wake of recent challenges.
