Introduction
The Young Mathematician Programme (YMP) is meant for students who are passionate in Mathematics and interested to extend their learning beyond school. In particular, this programme will provide the participants with the learning experiences to:
- hone and strengthen their mathematical problem-solving skills,
- appreciate the nature of mathematics,
- develop thinking dispositions and mathematical habits of minds to enable self-directed learning in Mathematics & engage in mathematical practices to think like a mathematician,
- use computing tools to do, use mathematics & apply Mathematics to solve real world problems.
Under this programme, students will have the opportunity to participate in:
- SMS Mathematics Interest Group
- Learning Programmes (short courses, summer and winter programmes)
- Learning Journeys
- Lecture Series
SMS Mathematics Interest Group
A collaborative initiative that brings together mathematics enthusiasts from different schools/ junior colleges to foster a vibrant and supportive community where everyone can share his/her passion for mathematics, engage in collaborative learning, and collectively explore the depths of Mathematics and its applications.
- Work on topics of mutual interest, explore new areas and develop a deeper understanding of the mathematics involved
- Collaborate on research on mathematical topics and/or solving challenging mathematical problems.
What to expect moving forward:
- Mentorship programmes with lecturers/professors from NUS, NTU, SUTD and NIE.
- Receive direct invitation to attend SMS public lectures or special lectures and future learning programmes and summer programmes.
- Receive invitation from NUS, NTU, SUTD and NIE to special events/ programmes/ lectures/ talks
- Contribute articles to Mathematical Medley. It contains mathematics articles mainly for students & teachers in secondary schools & junior colleges.
- Contribute to SMS Blog which promotes mathematical conversation among the mathematics community, locally & beyond
Continue to check out this space for our upcoming events.
If you would like to join the Young Mathematician Programme, you may sign up at https://go.gov.sg/smsyoungmathprog. Further details will be shared with registered students and alumni closer to the event dates.
If you would like to find out more about this programme, please write in to Ms Siow Yun Jie at siow_yun_jie@moe.edu.sg.
Past Years’ Programme
2026: AI as a Mathematical Companion
Audience: Junior College Students
Date/Time: 16 March 2026, 0900-1530h, Nanyang Junior College
Synopsis:
This workshop explored how generative AI can serve as a companion in mathematical learning. Participants used AI as a thought partner to explore and deepen their understanding of core H2 Mathematics topics through guided problem-solving and discussion. The session also focused on developing critical AI literacy by introducing the capabilities and limitations of generative AI. Students examined AI-generated mathematical explanations and proofs, and were encouraged to evaluate, verify, and question the outputs, thereby strengthening their critical thinking and inquiry skills. In addition, the workshop emphasised the importance of human oversight and the responsible use of AI in advancing learning and professional practice. Special thanks were extended to the keynote speaker, Mr Lam Meng Hwee, from Anderson Serangoon Junior College for sharing his expertise and insights.
2025: Making Sense of the World
Audience: Junior College Students
Date/Time: 23 June 2025, 0900-1600h, SUTD
Synopsis:
This session explored how mathematical techniques are applied in diverse fields such as engineering, science, and public health to help us better understand real-world phenomena. Through hands-on problem-solving, data analysis, and simple simulations, participants experienced how mathematical models are used to represent and analyse complex situations. The session also highlighted both the strengths and limitations of mathematical modelling, encouraging participants to think critically about how models are constructed and interpreted. By the end of the programme, students gained a deeper appreciation of the relevance of mathematics beyond the classroom and developed a modelling mindset that strengthens their analytical thinking and problem-solving skills.
2024: Young Mathematician Programme Inauguration
Audience: Junior College Students
Date/Time: 27 July 2024, 0900-1300h, Nanyang Junior College
Synopsis:
The Young Mathematician Programme (YMP) Inauguration brought together a vibrant community of like-minded and passionate junior college students eager to engage in mathematical discussions and problem-solving, fostering collaboration and critical thinking.
The programme featured insightful talks from esteemed speakers from Singapore’s leading universities. Professor Victor Tan from NUS, Professor Ng Keng Meng from NTU, Associate Professor Toh Pee Choon from NIE, and Associate Professor Dario Poletti from SUTD shared their knowledge, highlighting the academic pathways and opportunities available for those pursuing a future in mathematics.
A key highlight of the event was a panel discussion with representatives from the universities. This session provided valuable insights into career prospects and the importance of lifelong learning in mathematics. Students had the opportunity to ask questions and gain a clearer understanding of how mathematical skills can be applied across various industries, opening doors to exciting and diverse career paths.
