Yogyakarta, 3 September 2024 – SEAMEO Qitep in Mathematics (SEAQiM) is excited to announce its latest initiative under the SMILE Math Campaign with the webinar titled “Mathematics in Hobby and Profession.” The event held virtually via Zoom on 3 September 2024 in collaboration with SEAMEO BIOTROP, SEAMEO RECFON, and Balai Besar Guru Penggerak  (Teacher training agency – BBGP) of Yogyakarta Province.

The primary aim of this webinar is to emphasize the significance of mathematics, nutrition and health education, and biology through the lens of relevant hobbies and professions. The event will particularly focus on numismatics, a hobby related to mathematics, and professions within the health and biology sectors.

In his opening remarks, Dr. Sumardiyono, Director of SEAMEO Qitep in Mathematics, stated, “This webinar represents a significant collaboration between SEAQiM, BBGP Yogyakarta, SEAMEO BIOTROP, and SEAMEO RECFON. In 2024, SEAQiM has launched the SMILE Math Campaign (Savvy, Maintain, Intimate, Love, and Engage) to promote the importance of mathematics across various aspects of our lives. Through this webinar, we aim to highlight how mathematics plays a crucial role in both hobbies and professions.”

The webinar saw participation from 177 online attendees, including mathematics teachers, educators, and researchers. The session was moderated by Nur Fitriana, M.A., from BBGP DIY. The distinguished speakers included Dr. Sumardiyono, Director of SEAQiM, Slamet Widodo Sugiarto, S.Si, M.Sc from SEAMEO BIOTROP, and Ibu Evi Ermayani, M. Gizi from SEAMEO RECFON.

The event unfolded smoothly, featuring engaging discussions and a vibrant Q&A session between participants and the speakers. SEAQiM hopes that this initiative will enhance public appreciation of the practical applications of mathematics in everyday life, particularly within various professions.