Tao Wang from Protea Heights Academy received a gold award in the UCT Mathematics Competition. Picture: Supplied
Protea Heights Academy in Brackenfell is celebrating after their Grade 12 pupil Tao Wang, 18, received a gold award in the University of Cape Town (UCT) Mathematics Competition.
Even though the competition took place in April, the results were only made available this month and certificates given out on Tuesday last week, the academy told Northern News.
Gold awards are given to pupils who place in the top 10 individuals or top three pairs for each grade.
Each school can enter five individuals and five pairs per grade, and over 7 500 high school pupils in the province take part each year, according to the UCT website.
Protea Heights Academy said the award highlights Tao’s problem-solving skills and understanding of mathematical concepts.
“Tao is an exceptional mathematician. We are eagerly anticipating his performance in the national senior certificate examination at the end of this year.
“In addition to his mathematical mastery, Tao has also been distinguished as the Top National Learner and the Top Provincial Learner in the South African Agency for Science and Technology Advancement (SAASTA) Physical Science Olympiad for Grades 10 to 11 in 2023,” said Andrea Coetzer, principal of Protea Heights Academy.