LUMS Math Circles is an initiative by the LUMS Math department, one of the first programs of its kind in Pakistan, launched in 2021. We identified a gap between students' interest in math and the extent to which they are able to explore the subject. With the growing competitiveness of the world, it has become vital to provide students with opportunities to improve their problem-solving skills in the field of mathematical sciences.

The LUMS Math Circles is run by a team of dedicated volunteers who are passionate about mathematics and education. Our volunteers come from diverse backgrounds, including students, faculty members, and professionals in various fields. They bring their expertise and creativity to create an inclusive learning environment that fosters curiosity, collaboration, and a love for learning.

LUMS Math Circles is shaping the future of mathematics in Pakistan and empowering the next generation of leaders, thinkers, and problem-solvers.

Our Team:

Dr. Imran Anwar (Associate Professor of Mathematics, LUMS)

"Mathematics has a rich history and importance, but many Pakistani students struggle with the subject due to uninspiring teaching practices. I believe that Math Circles can help overcome this by using innovative methods to spark interest and encourage critical thinking and collaboration. I see these Circles as an imperative source of exposing school kids to advanced topics in exciting ways. The response of participants to these Circles is overwhelmingly positive, and their curiosity-driven questions and synergies are inexpressibly exciting. Through Math Circles, we share the excitement of learning and understanding mathematics in a fun-filled milieu. This can lead to a deep appreciation for the subject and inspire the next generation of mathematicians to contribute to scientific advances. As someone who has seen the tremendous benefits of Math Circles, I strongly believe that other institutions in Pakistan should follow suit and start conducting their own Math Circles. These circles have the potential to revolutionize the way mathematics is taught in Pakistan, by fostering a culture of curiosity, critical thinking, and collaboration." ~Imran Anwar

Dr. Adnan Khan (Associate Professor of Mathematics, LUMS)

"I have been part of the LUMS math circles for the past one year and have conducted circles at LUMS as well as outside of Lahore. It is always amazing to interact with young students and see their enthusiasm about learning. The circles provide an opportunity for students to see nonstandard math problems, these usually require more cleverness than machinery to solve and are hence ideally suited for middle and high school students. Starting with themes such as "Mathematical Games", "Magic of Numbers" and "Fun with Math" the students are introduced to problems from across the spectrum of mathematics, including arithmetic, algebra, geometry, game theory, combinatorics etc. Once again, the goal is not to introduce mathematical machinery but encourage students to think outside the box.

It has been an extremely rewarding experience, I have seen a lot of enthusiasm among the students, during each of the circles I there are always some students who stand out in terms of their ability to approach the problems presented. The feedback from these circles always includes students mentioning that "learning math can be fun", which has always been one of our goals!" ~Adnan Khan

Dr. Shaheen Nazir (Associate Professor of Mathematics, LUMS)

"The abstract and esoteric nature of mathematics often dissuades students from pursuing the subject at school, as it is commonly perceived as challenging and uninteresting. However, the Math Circle program provides a unique opportunity for students to appreciate the beauty and significance of mathematics early on in their academic careers. The primary objective of LUMS Math Circles is to showcase the aesthetic and intrinsic value of mathematics through interactive and entertaining approaches. By presenting complex topics in a simplified and accessible manner and examining easier topics in a more sophisticated and comprehensive way, Math Circles aim to enhance students' critical thinking and problem-solving skills. These topics may include rational tangles, the Pigeonhole Principle, the construction of rational numbers using straightedge and compass, and many more. The acquisition of mathematical knowledge can cultivate virtues such as honesty, courage, generosity, compassion, integrity, and prudence among students. One of the most rewarding aspects of Math Circles is observing the enthusiasm and sparkle in students' eyes during these sessions, fulfilling the core objective of these programs. Furthermore, participation in Math Circles has been shown to enhance students' problem-solving and mathematical thinking abilities, due to the collaborative and supportive nature of these programs, which encourages creative thinking and cooperation among peers. Overall, Math Circles represent an effective educational tool for fostering intellectual curiosity and improving mathematical proficiency among students." ~Shaheen Nazir

Dr. Waqas Ali Azhar (Assistant Professor of Mathematics, LUMS)

"Living in a country where education is not easily accessible to everyone, the free platform it provides for children to develop their skills in mathematics is truly invaluable. I have personally taken part in bringing LUMS Math Circles to government and trust schools and have witnessed the unparalleled passion and hunger of the students to learn.

LUMS Math Circles is not just providing quality mathematics education, but it is breaking down the barriers of social disparity. Through its efforts, it is ensuring that every child, regardless of their background, has access to the same opportunities to hone and enhance their skills in mathematical sciences.

LUMS Math Circles holds a special place in my heart, and I am grateful for the impact they are making in the lives of so many students. They are truly making a difference in the world and I am honored to support their mission." ~Waqas Ali Azhar

Dr. Haniya Azam (Assistant Professor of Mathematics, LUMS)

"The LUMS Math circles are a great initiative to engage young enthusiastic students and bring them together for the love of math. Through this platform school kids get to discover phenomena ruling everyday lives to the basis of easy-to-state yet hard-to-prove mathematical conjectures. I find the topics covered are balanced in that they include math-for-fun, foundational as well as applied math. I have spent one of the best hours of my teaching-life, at the Math circles. This 90 minutes journey from anxious faces to big smiles and shining eyes is the most rewarding of all!" ~Haniya Azam

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