Bill Speer from the University of Nevada delivering his keynote address.

The Faculty of Humanities at CUT is proud to host Africa's first 13th International Group for Mathematical Creativity and Giftedness Conference from February 20-23, 2023. The conference aims to explore mathematical creativity and giftedness across various educational contexts. 

During the conference, Professor Wendy Setlalentoa, Dean of Humanities, welcomed the gathering of brilliant minds dedicated to advancing mathematics education. She highlighted the significance of fostering mathematical creativity and nurturing giftedness in diverse educational landscapes amidst a world full of challenges and opportunities. "This conference is the first for Africa, the first for South Africa, and the first for our university," she said. 

The keynote speaker, Prof. Bill Speer from the University of Nevada, discussed principles for teaching mathematics creatively to promote creativity in diverse settings. He emphasised the importance of challenging conventional thoughts about mathematics and devising creative methods to construct and claim ownership of new knowledge. Proper understanding is defined by the transfer of existing knowledge to apparently new situations, and educators play a pivotal role in motivating creativity. 

Another speaker, Prof. Dirk Wessels from the University of Stellenbosch, discussed "The Art of Mathematical Modelling: Unleashing Creativity."  He highlighted the importance of creativity and problem-solving in the 21^st century for global and personal success, contributing to economic prosperity and reducing inequalities. Mathematical creativity involves fluency, flexibility, originality, uniqueness, and insightful solutions. Mathematical modelling is a crucial aspect aligned with international curricula requiring learners to tackle real-world problems and foster creative mathematical talent. 

The conference also featured speakers such as Abdon Atonga from the University of the Free State, Kobus Maree from the University of Pretoria, and Linda Sheffield from Northern Kentucky University, who shared valuable insights and perspectives on mathematical creativity and giftedness in education.

Prof. Dirk Wessels from the University of Stellenbosch delivering their keynote address

Uploaded: 22 February 2024