The Universal Concept of Mental Arithmetic System (UCMAS) has marked the 14th edition of its National Competition with a strong appeal to parents, educators, and policymakers to invest in initiatives that not only sharpen young minds but also prepare them to become future leaders.
Speaking to the media on the opening day of the event on August 9, 2025, at the Pentecost Convention Centre in Kasoa, Central Region, UCMAS Managing Director Girish Gurbani stressed the importance of equipping children with skills that go beyond academic excellence. He urged stakeholders to prioritize programs that strengthen intellectual capacity, emotional resilience, and creative problem-solving.
“This initiative is more than an academic tool, it’s a visionary platform that equips students with the problem-solving skills, emotional intelligence, and creativity needed to thrive in a rapidly changing world,” Gurbani said. “If we want a generation ready to meet global challenges with courage and innovation, UCMAS is not just helpful, it’s essential.”
The 14th National Competition was held under the theme “UCMAS: A Requisite Medium for Training 21st Century Students to Solve Global Challenges” and attracted over 140 schools from across Ghana. Winners will be awarded specially designed UCMAS trophies in recognition of their outstanding achievements in mental arithmetic and cognitive development.
Gurbani noted the growing influence of technology and artificial intelligence in education and encouraged young learners to embrace these tools as critical to their future success. He explained that while UCMAS currently operates in some government schools with the support of Parent-Teacher Associations, the organisation is actively seeking partnerships to expand the program to all public schools in the country.
“We believe every child deserves access to this transformative program,” he emphasized.
Echoing his sentiments, UCMAS Business Development Director Roger Oheme reflected on the program’s achievements over the past 15 years. “We’ve seen remarkable improvements in children who once struggled academically. The confidence parents place in UCMAS continues to grow, and the results speak for themselves,” he said.
