Moldova achieves strong results at Balkan Junior Mathematics Olympiad: two silver and two bronze medals
The Olympic team from the Republic of Moldova has returned from the 30th edition of the Balkan Junior Mathematical Olympiad with impressive results. Moldovan students earned two silver medals and two bronze medals at this prestigious international competition for young math enthusiasts.
This year, the competition brought together 133 students from 22 countries. The Republic of Moldova was represented by six students and two teachers, who were selected following the national stages of the Mathematics Olympiad and subsequent qualifying rounds.
Marcel Teleucă, the coach of the national team and a mathematics teacher, shared with Radio Moldova on the show “Zi de Zi” that the selection of students is based on their performance in the Republican Olympiad. He noted that preparation for international competitions requires a higher level of knowledge than is covered in the school curriculum.
“National and international Olympiads are unique. They differ significantly from school, baccalaureate, or admission mathematics. There are different topics and formats involved,” explained Marcel Teleucă.
According to him, achieving success in such competitions necessitates passion, discipline, and consistent effort.
“You have to do it for enjoyment, and you must practice regularly. It’s like sports,” he said.
The mathematics teacher noted that the level of competition is high, with Moldovan students competing against strong teams from the region, including those from Romania, Bulgaria, Serbia, and Turkey.
“There are many talented students passionate about mathematics in the Balkan region. This is a hub of strong mathematical talent,” he stated.
One of the silver medals was awarded to Victor Roșca, an 8th-grade student from the “Gheorghe Palade” Lyceum in the village of Puhăceni, Ialoveni district.
Victor explained that the competition test is one of the most challenging stages, as students must solve complex problems across various areas of mathematics within a limited time frame.
“The test lasts four and a half hours and consists of four problems, arranged by difficulty,” he shared.
For him, participating in competitions is an opportunity to connect with other young people who share a passion for mathematics.
“Mathematics is not just about competitions; it’s wonderful to discover others who have the same enthusiasm,” he said.
Lilian Duca, an 8th-grade student at a private lyceum in Durlești and a silver medalist in the competition, believes her achievement is the result of consistent preparation and individual effort, even during the holidays.
“The work I did individually at home, after school, contributed significantly to my success,” said Lilian Duca.
The Republic of Moldova's participation in the Balkan Junior Mathematical Olympiad is a crucial step in preparing for future international Olympiads. This competition aims to promote excellence in education, develop logical thinking, and strengthen relationships among young people passionate about mathematics from different countries.
