Particularly talented students are challenged in mathematics at Mid Sweden University

Artur Silva is in year 2 of the natural science program at Skvadern upper secondary school and has already finished the high school's mathematics courses. He is now teaching mathematics at university level at Mid Sweden University.

"I've always been interested in equations and problem solving. It was in grade 8 that my great interest in mathematics really took off," says Artur.

Edvin Israelsson Narveby is in year 9 at Bergsåker's school and has graduated from the upper secondary school science mathematics courses. Like Artur, he is now being taught at the level that corresponds to his ability.

"I've always had an easy time with mathematics and think it's fun. In the second half of year 7, I got more advanced mathematics courses, and now I'm studying mathematics at university level," says Edvin.

Stimulating young talent

Andreas Lind, Deputy Head of Department and Head of Subject in Mathematics at Mid Sweden University, sees the initiative as an important part of the university's work to stimulate young mathematics talents.

"It's an excellent way to market the subject of mathematics and at the same time support these exceptionally talented students. It's inspiring to work with students who are so motivated," says Andreas.

For Mid Sweden University's Vice-Chancellor, Anders Fällström, who is himself a mathematician, the initiative is extra important. As a young student, he had the same opportunity to study mathematics at university level and knows what a difference it can make.

"It meant that mathematics didn't become a boring subject where I had to stomp on with things I already thought I had mastered. Instead, I got to tackle mentally challenging areas, be fascinated by the fabulous mathematics and be inspired to further studies," he says.

He emphasizes that the opportunity to study advanced mathematics at a young age was crucial.

"If I hadn't been given that chance, I would hardly have become a mathematician, continued with postgraduate studies and research, or stayed in academia. Nor would I have been able to discover the most fascinating intellectual construct humanity has created: pure mathematics," says Anders.

That the university is open and accommodating to young talents is also something he sees as important.

"When I contacted Umeå University, I received a committed and friendly reception from a director of studies, which opened the door for me. It shows how important it is that we in academia respond to inquiries and treat young talents in a positive way.

Positive and developing challenge

To meet Artur and Edvin's needs, their teachers and schools have worked actively to provide them with more challenging tasks. But they also saw that they needed to offer something more to give them the opportunity to continue developing their knowledge. And this is a prerequisite for the university to be able to meet the needs.

"We can't accept everyone, for this to work, the students need to be self-motivated and there must be teachers here who are passionate about teaching them," says Andreas Lind.

Both students experience university teaching as a positive and developing challenge.

"It's fun to get more challenges and to learn new things," says Artur.

"Being able to study mathematics at a higher level is exciting and gives me a better understanding of the subject," says Edvin.

Andreas Lind emphasizes that it is usually mathematics teachers who contact the university to help students with particularly high abilities to receive more adapted teaching.

Both Artur and Edvin see this experience as an important part of their future study choices and career plans.

"Being able to study mathematics at Mid Sweden University is a good certificate and makes me more knowledgeable. I want to do a PhD in mathematics," says Artur.

Edvin shares a similar ambition.

"I want to continue studying mathematics at university level and can imagine doing a PhD.

By offering advanced teaching and an inspiring environment, Mid Sweden University hopes to contribute to more young people choosing a career in mathematics and technology.