Some Saskatchewan First Nations students are proving they are excelling in math.

The First Nations University of Canada (FNUniv) is pleased to highlight both the interest and excellence that First Nations youth are demonstrating in mathematics through their participation in FNUniv's annual Wiseman Mathematics Contest. 

The initiative, designed to motivate young students in First Nations schools to learn math in a competitive environment, bears the distinction of being North America's first math contest developed for Aboriginal students.

"We are delighted with this year's response in participation as well as the special ways that the various schools celebrate the students who chose to participate in the contest," says Dr. Lynn Wells, FNUniv Vice-President Academic. "I'd also like to acknowledge the dedication of FNUniv Science Faculty member, Dr. Arzu Sardarli, for initiating this contest in 2008 and continuing to spearhead it."

"The Wiseman Math Competition is an excellent opportunity for First Nations students to showcase their math skills," says Pearleen Lachhab, Principal of Chamakese Education Center. "We were fortunate enough to have one student who got 100% in his Math test last year. The students enjoy the competition very much and are excited knowing they are competing against other First Nations students across the country."

The contest has become so popular that grade 6 students were also given the opportunity to participate; it also marks the first year that students from New Brunswick, representing Elsipogtog and Bouctouche First Nations, have registered.

The 2013 Wiseman Mathematics Contest winners are:

• Lloyd S. King Elementary School (Ontario) - Grades 4, 5 and 6
• Eleanor W. Graham Middle School (New Brunswick) - Grade 6
• Individual students who placed were from Witchekan Lake, Pelican Lake, and Cross Lake First Nations in Saskatchewan, and Long Plain First Nation in Manitoba.

From Saskatchewan, Christy Jo Thomas and Seth Murray from Kisiskohk School on the Witchekan Lake First Nation both placed third in the grade 4 competition, and Regan Thomas of the Chamakese Education Centre from Pelican Lake placed first in the grade 6 competition.