The 25th International Mathematics Competition: Affirming the position of international educational integration

The VIMC 2025 exam attracted candidates from 30 countries and territories. Photo: THU HA

Knowledge exchange playground

Held for the first time in Da Nang , the 25th International Mathematics Competition is not only an academic competition for secondary school students but also an opportunity for cultural exchange and experience for more than 500 candidates from 30 countries and territories. Candidates were very impressed by the exciting, friendly atmosphere and the methodical and professional organization of the host locality.

Candidate Nicholas Valdex, from the Mexican delegation, shared that from the moment they arrived at Da Nang International Airport, the teams were warmly welcomed, showing the thoughtfulness and hospitality of the host. Nicholas had spent a lot of time practicing and preparing for the exam and this trip was a great opportunity.

Joining the contest, Nicholas not only brought with him knowledge and determination to achieve the best results, but also the spirit of learning, exchanging, and exploring different cultures, including the indigenous culture of Da Nang, Vietnam.

Candidates visit Da Nang Museum. Photo: THU HA

Nicholas said he really likes the beautiful scenery and people here. They are sociable and friendly, especially meeting new friends of the same age and with the same interests.

Like Nicholas Valdex, contestant Fatimah Zahra Sheikh, Bangladesh delegation expressed: “I did not expect much when participating in this exam but what I received here was more than expected.

The most important thing after the exam is not the prize but the experiences I have had in this exam. That is, I know where I am lacking so that I can do better and be ready for bigger exams in the future; that is, I get to meet and interact with friends who share the same passion for mathematics…”.

Contestant Arjun Raman, from the United States, was very impressed by the vibrant, friendly atmosphere and the professional organization of Da Nang, the city hosting the exam. In addition to challenging exam questions, Arjun also experienced Vietnamese cuisine and culture, and visited some famous tourist attractions in Da Nang.

VIMC 2025 - a bridge connecting countries

VIMC 2025 takes place from August 14-19 at the Vietnam - Korea University of Information and Communications Technology (University of Danang). Contestants compete in two categories: individual and team.

Candidates participate in extracurricular activities. Photo: THU HA

Prof. Wen Hsien Sun, Chairman of the IMC International Committee, said that with the tradition and spirit of innovation in mathematics, in recent years, Vietnamese students have achieved many impressive results in international mathematics competitions, winning many medals and high rankings, showing that Vietnam is a fertile land for future math stars.

According to Prof. Wen Hsien Sun, hosting VIMC 2025 for the first time, Da Nang has made many good impressions on the international delegations participating. This is not only a competition but also a bridge connecting countries, ideas and dreams of young mathematicians from more than 30 countries and territories, creating friendships across all borders.

Mr. Michael Angelo Saavedra, Chief of Staff of the Philippine Vice President in charge of the Western Mindanao region, expressed his impression of the thoughtful preparations, grand scale and warm hospitality of the host country, Da Nang, Vietnam.

The exam is a math playground for secondary school students from countries around the world. Photo: THU HA

“We come together through mathematics, but it is culture and friendship that will take us further, helping to foster an international academic community rich in compassion, respect and sharing,” Mr. Saavedra affirmed.

Ms. Le Thi Bich Thuan, Director of the Department of Education and Training of Da Nang, said that Mathematics is not only the science of numbers and formulas but also the common language of humanity; helping people understand the world more deeply, connecting intelligence and opening up creative solutions for the future.

In the context of globalization and the application of artificial intelligence, mathematical thinking, logical thinking and international cooperation capabilities become more important than ever.

The VIMC 2025 exam is not only a playground for students to demonstrate their talents, abilities and passion for mathematics, but also an opportunity to exchange and learn, broaden their horizons and foster international friendships.

Candidates in a team competition. Photo: THU HA

“During the exam days, candidates not only conquered mathematics but also created beautiful memories and long-lasting relationships that transcended borders and geography,” Ms. Thuan emphasized.

Within the framework of the exam, the delegations of candidates and teachers participated in cultural exchange activities, visited famous tourist attractions of the city such as Hoi An ancient town, Da Nang Museum, Ngu Hanh Son National Monument, experienced at Nui Than Tai Hot Spring Park... This is an opportunity for Da Nang in particular, and Vietnam in general, to promote the image of the country in the eyes of international friends.

The International Mathematics Competition (IMC) is an annual academic event, becoming one of the largest and most prestigious mathematics arenas for secondary school students.

In 2025, the exam was held in Da Nang, Vietnam from August 14 to 19, attracting 526 candidates, 181 teachers and 100 guests from 29 countries and territories along with the host Vietnam.

Candidates go through 2 rounds of individual and team competition, with the form of argumentation and debate to achieve maximum score in Mathematics.

In the end, the overall championship belonged to Vietnam and Singapore.

Of which, the Vietnamese team excellently won 18 individual awards (6 Gold medals, 4 Silver medals, 8 Bronze medals).

In addition, the Organizing Committee also awarded additional prizes such as: Cultural exchange prize, puzzle challenge prize for excellent teams, excellent individual prize, individual team prize, collective team prize and grand prize.

At the closing ceremony, the Organizing Committee awarded the IMC 2026 hosting flag to the Mongolian delegation.

Source: https://baodanang.vn/ky-thi-toan-hoc-quoc-te-lan-thu-25-khang-dinh-vi-the-hoi-nhap-giao-duc-quoc-te-3299832.html