The 15th International Congress on Mathematical Education (ICME-15) held from July 7-14, 2024, at the International Convention Center in Sydney, Australia, brought together a diverse group of educators, researchers, and practitioners to explore global trends in mathematics education.
Assistant Professor Early Sol A. Gadong from UP High School in Iloilo (UPHSI) presented her paper, “Ethnomathematics in the Philippine Epics of Panay.” Her research delves into the cultural and mathematical practices of the Panay Bukidnon, an Indigenous People in the Philippines. By examining the Panay Sugidanun (Epics of Panay), she uncovered ethnomathematical concepts emphasizing estimation over precise calculations.
The presentation was part of the Topic Study Group on Ethnomathematics and First Nations/Indigenous Peoples' mathematics and education. Along with her were Prof. Willy Alangui of UP Baguio and Prof. Frankie Fran of Romblon State University who were also involved in the study of ethnomathematics. The session was moderated by Tony Trinick of the University of Auckland.
ICME-15 featured a program with 2,393 participants, 2,065 speakers, and attendees from 97 countries. The event included plenary lectures, panels, awardee lectures, survey reports, and numerous group sessions. Among the attendees were 197 Solidarity Fund Awardees, 28 of whom were from the Philippines.
Gadong’s participation was supported by the UP Office of International Linkages (UP OIL) Travel Grant and the ICME-15 Solidarity Fund.
Before attending ICME-15, Gadong participated in the Mathematics Education Research Group of Australasia (MERGA 46) Conference at Griffith University on the Gold Coast, Queensland, from June 30 to July 4, 2024.
Gadong also engaged in the Early Career Researchers Program, which provided opportunities to develop research skills, meet international experts, and build professional networks through exclusive sessions and dedicated spaces.
She is currently pursuing her PhD in Mathematics Education at the UP Open University.
Written by Asst. Prof. Joven Llabore, ProfEd with sources from Asst. Prof. Early Sol Gadong
