Astana's intergenerational math showdown unites young and old in mental arithmetic

A unique mental arithmetic championship took place in Astana, bringing together nearly 100 participants of all ages. The event, held at Comfortable School No. 103, saw schoolchildren and pensioners competing side by side. Around 250 spectators attended the competition, which aimed to bridge generational gaps through numbers and quick thinking. The championship was organised under the Baıterek party project in collaboration with the local UCMAS primary branch. Mental arithmetic has grown steadily in Kazakhstan over the past decade, with annual city and national contests becoming a tradition. This year’s event stood out for its intergenerational format, pairing young students with seniors who had trained for a year at no cost.

Instructor Bibigul Narynbaevna explained that mental arithmetic boosts memory, sharpens perception, and speeds up information processing. She also noted its potential to help prevent Alzheimer’s in older adults. Sanira Zhusupova, chair of the Yesil District Amanat branch, emphasised that the project goes beyond education by encouraging dialogue between generations. Sharip Utemiratov, head of the Yesil District veterans’ council, shared how the classes had given participants new ways to connect across age groups. Representatives from Astana’s Amanat party, including the capital’s education department head, were also present to support the initiative.

The competition highlighted the benefits of mental arithmetic for both young and old. Seniors who trained for free over the past year joined children in solving complex problems under pressure. Organisers plan to continue expanding the project, building on its success in fostering learning and community ties.