PNGUoT’s Mathematics and Computer Science Staff & Student Association Celebrates International Pi Day
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The Mathematics and Computer Science Staff and Student Association ( MCSSSA ) successfully organized a lively and engaging Pi Day event, which brought together not only Mathematics and Computer Sciences students but also students from other schools.
International Pi Day is an annual celebration dedicated to the mathematical constant π (pi), which represents the ratio of a circle’s circumference to its diameter.
The day is observed globally by mathematics enthusiasts and institutions to promote awareness and appreciation for mathematics.
Pi Day is celebrated on March 14 (3/14) because the date resembles the first three digits of pi (3.14). The celebration was first established in 1988 and has since grown into a worldwide event that includes educational activities, competitions, and mathematical discussions.
The event featured various activities designed to test and celebrate mathematical skills in an enjoyable manner.
Among the competitions held were the Pi recitation challenge, chess, Sudoku, Pac-Man, Rubik’s Cube, speed math, and other games that incorporated mathematical strategies. For instance, chess required players to calculate moves ahead using logic and probability, while solving a Rubik’s Cube involved pattern recognition and algorithmic thinking.
Prizes were awarded to the winners of these competitions, recognizing their outstanding performances and dedication.
Apart from academic activities, the event also featured a karaoke session where students showcased their singing talents.
This highlighted the idea that academic excellence is not the only measure of talent—some students, despite not excelling academically, demonstrated remarkable musical abilities.
The highlight of the evening was the Pi recitation contest, where students impressed the audience with their extraordinary memorization skills. The winners of the contest were: First place: Florence Palin – Applied Mathematics, Third Year – 115 decimal places; Second place: Jonah Margis – Applied Mathematics, Second Year – 106 decimal places; Third place: Ismael Vai’i – Computer Science, First Year – 55 decimal places; Fourth place: Jacinta Rikar – Computer Science, First Year – 53 decimal places.
The success of the event would not have been possible without the generous support of Mr. Sarsoruo and Dr. Mohsen, who sponsored the winners of the Pi recitation contest.
Their contributions and encouragement made the event even more meaningful.
During the event, Mr. Sarsoruo delivered a brief but insightful talk on the values of pi and how mathematics is applied in everyday life. His words reinforced the significance of mathematical concepts beyond the classroom.
Special appreciation goes to the judges of the Pi memorization contest for their meticulous verification and tracking of results. Their dedication ensured the integrity of the competition.
A heartfelt thank you is extended to all Mathematics and Computer Science students, from first-year to final-year, who worked tirelessly to organize and execute the event. Their commitment played a crucial role in making the celebration a resounding success.
The event was well attended, with a packed room filled with energy and excitement from students from various schools also participated, demonstrating a shared enthusiasm for mathematical exploration.
Faculty members engaged with students in discussions on mathematical concepts, making the occasion both educational and enjoyable.
The MCSSSA’s Pi Day celebration was a testament to the power of mathematics in bringing people together, fostering both academic excellence and community spirit.
The association looks forward to hosting more such events in the future to inspire a deeper appreciation for mathematics and its applications.