UCMAS is a mental arithmetic international program that is designed to improve cognitive skills among children aged 4-14. It was founded in 1993 and is now used in more than 90 countries around the world. Georgia joined in 2019. UCMAS is unique in its methodology, which uses an abacus with a special technique using six fingers. This method improves children’s mental arithmetic abilities, improving their concentration, memory and overall mental coordination.
This year, approximately 1,500 Georgian students actively practiced UCMAS. 120 of the best students from cities such as Tbilisi and Batumi were selected to compete in the first ever national championship. The competition required students to solve 100 mental arithmetic questions in only 8 minutes. These events not only challenge the students, but also help them develop resilience and goal-setting skills. They focus on long-term achievement and step-bystep achievement. These life skills go beyond the classroom to prepare children for their future.
UCMAS is based on a unique methodology which enhances arithmetic abilities while developing critical cognitive abilities. The program is supported by research from prestigious institutions such as Harvard, Stanford and the University of California San Diego. Additionally, events such as the International Grading Exam and national and international contests help students build self-confidence. They also teach them how to set goals and achieve them systematically. Since the UCMAS program was launched in Georgia in 2019 over 5,000 students participated.
The program is divided into 10 levels that take approximately four years to complete. This year we are proud to celebrate the first group of graduates that have successfully completed the program and developed essential life skills.
“We believe STEM education leads to innovation. To align with this vision we are collaborating and introducing new programs in artificial intelligence (AI), video gaming, and codebreaking with partners from the UK. These exciting projects will develop in exclusive partnerships with Bletchley Park in the UK, Findel UK and DigiPen in the USA, giving students in Georgia an opportunity to explore cutting edge technologies,” the UCMAS Team stated in the interview.
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