Calling Grade 11 and 12 learners

SAIPA’s National Accounting and Maths Olympiad fosters the development of future-ready Accountancy professionals

JOHANNESBURG, 7 July 2023 – The South African Institute of Professional Accountants (SAIPA) invites grade 11 and 12 learners from across South Africa to enter in its annual National Accounting and Maths Olympiad (NAMO) competition. The programme aims to produce future-ready Professional Accountants who are equipped to thrive beyond the Fourth Industrial Revolution. Entries for NAMO still now open, and will close on 14 July 2023.

 The competition, launched in 2021, encourages students to put their Maths and Accounting skills to the test with current and applicable scenario case studies. The refreshed format has been designed to align with the shift towards automation, primarily driven by the increasing demands of the digital era.

 Artificial Intelligence (AI) continues to make advancements in various professions, significantly impacting the Accountancy profession. The Olympiad will enable learners to advance in the skills of business, technology, and communication from the high school level, preparing them to become the next generation of Business and Accountancy professionals.

 Grade 11 Maths and Accounting entrants will write an online assessment first, followed by a subsequent series of multiple-choice questions related to the respective subject. They will have to select the most appropriate answer from the given options based on their understanding and application of the concepts covered in the syllabus. This format will serve as a benchmark to evaluate their fundamental knowledge and grasp of the subject matter.

 For grade 12 learners, participation in the Olympiad encompasses an open-ended project that enables students to apply their own approach to researching information, solving problems, and reaching their objectives. Whether individually entered or in a group of five, grade 12 learners will receive a case study that they will use to develop business ideas and solutions while incorporating the principles of Accounting and Math. The project consists of two submissions, one at the end of July and another at the end of September, respectively.

 Following the assessments and project submissions, Grade 12 learners or teams will be shortlisted and invited for the final challenge. During this stage, they will present their research before a panel of judges where they will showcase their ability to research, conceptualise and communicate their knowledge and strategic thinking based on the case study challenge.

 The winners will be announced at a prestigious awards ceremony during SAIPA’s annual Accounting iNdaba in November 2023, walking away with cash prizes and more from the Olympiad sponsors Sage, the University of Johannesburg Department of Accountancy, NtaNet Solutions, and CAMAF Medical Scheme.

 “Maths and Accountancy skills provide access to numerous career opportunities and industries that are in high demand for talented young professionals. The SAIPA National Accounting and Maths Olympiad (NAMO) tests learners’ academic skills and broadens their perspective on how their knowledge can be applied in the dynamic world of business. SAIPA is proud to playing a part in fostering the next generation of Business and Finance professionals, and we encourage all interested students to apply,” says Professor Rashied Small, Executive: Centre of Future Excellence at SAIPA.

 How to enter?

Visit SAIPA’s website at https://mysaipa.co.za/WebPages/School/Learner/start.aspx. Schools may enter as many learners as they wish.