17/10/2024

Itaú Social launches math learning project.

“Mathematics in the Final Years of Elementary School” is the newest initiative from Itaú Social, in partnership with the Basic Education Secretariat of the MEC (Ministry of Education). The project promotes the recognition and support of projects that promote learning in mathematics in public schools. Education professionals, civil society organizations, research centers, and universities can register until 6 PM on October 31st through the Itaú Social Grant Platform . The selected projects will be announced in January 2025.

The project specifically covers mathematics dissemination projects in the final years of elementary school, from 6th to 9th grade. Recognizing the low levels of mathematics development in Brazil, the social approach of the projects is an important part of the evaluation of applicants.

Practices for reducing inequalities in the study of mathematics, circular learning models, and alignment with the National Common Curriculum Base (BNCC) are some of the criteria included in the call for proposals.

“We cannot normalize the poor grades in mathematics among Brazilian students, treating the subject as something inaccessible or reserved only for a few, as if it were a matter of 'talent.' By doing so, we fail to guarantee the right to fundamental life skills. Furthermore, we waste opportunities to include more people in essential areas such as technology and engineering. There are Brazilian initiatives that are already transforming this reality, and it is crucial to identify these projects so that they can be known and adapted in other regions. We urgently need to formulate strategies that prioritize mathematics in educational policies and in the national debate,” emphasizes Patricia Mota Guedes, superintendent of Itaú Social.

The call for proposals provides support for both successful initiatives promoting mathematics and the fostering of new projects. In the "recognition" support category , for already active projects, those selected will receive financial assistance of R$ 10,000 and will have their initiatives publicized by Itaú Social.

Those classified in the "incentive" category , intended for projects in the planning phase, will receive financial support of up to R$80,000 and monitoring for the execution of activities in the first half of 2025.

Proposals can be submitted in two categories: “ Teaching and Learning Practices in Mathematics.” This category includes projects involving the use of teaching resources and pedagogical planning, as well as initiatives for learning recovery, Olympic circles, and outreach activities. The second category, “ Development of Knowledge and Skills in Mathematics,” focuses on teacher training and professional development.

Applications are available through the Itaú Social Grants Platform until October 31st. The list of selected recipients will be released in January 2025.