The Kaithal district administration in Haryana has launched a free coaching programme for 266 students from Classes VIII to XII, drawn from around 150 government schools, to prepare for the Indian Olympiad Qualifier in Mathematics (IOQM)-2026. The initiative aims to nurture talent for the International Mathematical Olympiad (IMO), where the world's brightest school students compete.
Coaching Structure and Resources
Approximately 60 mathematics teachers mentor the selected students every Saturday at six government schools, one in each block of the district. The teachers have developed a special book titled 'International Math Olympiad-District Kaithal' to help students master Olympiad-level concepts and problem-solving techniques. According to the teachers, the Olympiad coaching enhances logical reasoning, creativity, perseverance, and problem-solving abilities.
Campaign to Boost Participation
The district administration has also launched a campaign to maximize participation in IOQM-2026, which is jointly conducted by the Mathematics Teachers' Association (India) and the Homi Bhabha Centre for Science Education (HBCSE). The last date for registration is July 26, and the examination will be held on September 6. Six government schools have been designated as examination centres, and officials have set a target of around 7,000 students appearing for the examination this year.
Official Statements
“We have launched an intensive campaign to nurture mathematical talent. Apart from the 266 students under regular coaching, we are encouraging more students to register by providing them home assignments and a specially prepared Olympiad help book. With this coaching, we are bridging the gap between talent and opportunity,” said Aparajita, Deputy Commissioner, Kaithal, who reviews the progress of this campaign regularly.
The DC added, “Despite the importance of the Olympiad, many talented students remain unaware of the opportunity. Our objective is to provide them a platform. We started free coaching in September-2025 after conducting a selection test and orientation programmes for students, parents and teachers.”
Implementation and Monitoring
School heads across the district have been directed to identify eligible students, facilitate registrations, and guide them through the application process. The campaign targets students from Classes VIII to XII who meet the eligibility criteria. Mathematics specialist Chhattar Pal said the programme is being closely monitored by the district administration. The DC has assigned responsibilities to the District Education Officer, principals of the six coaching centres, and Block Education Officers to regularly interact with students and their parents and resolve any issues promptly.
“The success of the programme depends on continuous mentoring and monitoring. Every stakeholder has been assigned a specific responsibility to ensure students receive the best possible support,” said Pal. He added that the Haryana Government's proposal to organise the Haryana Mathematics Olympiad with attractive prizes would further motivate students to pursue higher levels of mathematical competitions.
Student Reactions
Teachers believe initiatives like this go beyond preparing students for a competitive examination, while students say this coaching has changed their approach. “Earlier, I was afraid of difficult mathematics questions. This coaching has completely changed my approach. Now, I enjoy solving challenging problems and dream of qualifying for the IOQM,” said Ruchi, a student.
Avinash, another student, said, “The teachers explain every concept patiently and encourage us to think differently. I never imagined I could prepare for an international-level competition.”
