Bermuda Joins International Math Olympiad
The Bermuda Mathematics Academy has successfully registered Bermuda as an observer country for the 2026 International Mathematics Olympiad [IMO] in Shanghai, China.
A spokesperson said, “This is a first for the country and will allow Bermuda to send a student team to participate in the 2027 IMO to compete with the top mathematical minds around the world. This is an incredible achievement for the Bermuda Mathematics Academy, local mathematicians, and the island as a whole.
Gregor Dolinar, President of the IMO, said, ‘I am very happy that Bermuda is joining the IMO. Happy that students also from more remote/small countries have an opportunity to meet their peers from all over the world. Welcome!’
A spokesperson for the IMO said, “The International Mathematical Olympiad is the World Championship Mathematics Competition for high school students, held annually in a different country. The IMO brings together talented young people from around the world who love mathematics. It has a rich history spanning over six decades, growing from a small Eastern European competition to the world’s most prestigious mathematics contest for high school students. The first IMO was held in 1959 in Romania, with 7 countries participating. It has gradually expanded to over 110 countries from 5 continents.
“Beyond medals, the IMO experience fosters international friendships and inspires participants to pursue careers in mathematics, science, and technology. During the IMO week, contestants can meet fellow math enthusiasts from around the world, attend inspiring talks by leading mathematicians, and explore new cultures through a variety of free-time programs organised by the host country.
“It is always a pleasure to welcome a new country to the International Mathematical Olympiad, as our primary goal is to enable as many students as possible to take part. In most years, there is at least one country or territory participating for the first time, thereby helping to expand the International Mathematical Olympiad community.
“In some years, several countries or territories go through the process of participating in the IMO and send observers to the IMO for the first time to familiarise themselves with IMO practices, take inspiration from the discussions on the shortlist problems, and learn from the experiences of other countries. New participants have the opportunity not only to challenge themselves with exceptionally difficult problems, but also to encounter different approaches to mathematical thinking and contribute their own perspectives to the community.”
The spokesperson said, “Details of the 2026 IMO can be found here and details of the IMO organisation can be found here.”
Senator Crystal C. Caesar, Minister of Education, said, “The growth of the Bermuda Mathematics Academy and our local Olympiad pathway represents an important step forward in nurturing academic excellence. By creating meaningful opportunities for our top mathematics students to challenge themselves, collaborate, and compete on an international stage, we are not only elevating standards but also expanding what is possible for young Bermudians. Participation in global forums like the International Mathematics Olympiad signals that Bermuda is committed to developing world-class talent and providing new academic outlets where brilliance can truly thrive.”
Dr. Llewellyn Simmons, Director of Academics for The Department of Education, said, “The International Mathematics Olympiad 2026 serves as a platform for Bermuda’s students to convey their mathematical genius and communicate their math code. Mathematics is in everything. Mathematics is for everyone.”
The spokesperson said, “To build our Bermuda team for the IMO, the Bermuda Mathematics Academy is hosting regular local Olympiads. Participants can register at maths.bm for more details and to compete for a spot on the Bermuda IMO mathematics team.”
