The toppers of the eighth national-level abacus and mental arithmetic examination and fourth national-level speed arithmetic examination, conducted by Ideal Play Abacus India Private Limited (IPA), were honoured at a function held at the Chennai Trade Centre, Nandambakkam. Of the 3,000 students, in the age group of seven to 12 years, who appeared for the test, 18 bagged the Grand Master Award in mental arithmetic exam and 16 won the award in speed arithmetic exam.
The examination was conducted in three levels. In the first level, 75 problems have to be solved in three minutes; in the second level, 100 sums in three minutes; and in the third level, 150 sums in five minutes.
The awards were presented by Masanamuthu, IPS, Chennai, in the presence of M. Rangarajan, General Manager, Indian Overseas Bank, Central Office, Chennai; Steven Tan, President, Play Abacus SDN BHD, Malaysia; and Pandiaraj, film director. The event was presided over by Shaarada K. Sriram, Managing Director, IPA, and Chitraa Ravindran, Director (Training), IPA.
Speaking on the occasion Ms. Shaarada K. Sriram said that the examination tests factors such as speed, accuracy, concentration, intelligence, and confidence. She said that the abacus method enhances the overall development of the brain as it does not involve the use of paper or pen in solving problems. Ms. Chitraa Ravindran in her address said that children are trained to do calculations mentally. They become proficient in solving 75 to 100 sums in three minutes, she added.
About IPA
The institution which is affiliated to Play Abacus, Malaysia, and Guang Xi Abacus Association, China, was established by women entrepreneurs in 2003. It has over 300 centres across India. The institution has obtained Premier Achievement Training Certificate from China. For details, contact 95000 55980.
