Can you make 24? For hundreds of South African primary school learners, that deceptively simple question has become a test of speed, strategy and mental agility. On 29 October 2026, young maths champions from more than 300 schools will go head-to-head at the national final of the Peregrine Capital 24SumMore Mathematics Competition in Johannesburg.

What began as a 54-school pilot in Gauteng in 2025 has grown into a nationwide initiative involving more than 300 schools in 2026, significantly expanding access to the competition and its fast-paced approach to mathematics.

Designed for learners in Grades 4 to 6, 24SumMore uses the 24 Game format, challenging participants to combine four numbers using addition, subtraction, multiplication or division to reach the number 24.

It is maths; but with a little more adrenaline. And faster than a calculator can do.

Making maths something young people want to do

The growth of 24SumMore comes as South Africa continues to face significant challenges around mathematics and foundational numeracy.

The Department of Basic Education’s 2023 TIMSS results found that South Africa’s Grade 5 mathematics score declined from 374 in 2019 to 362 in 2023, underscoring the need to strengthen foundational learning.

The Department has identified foundational literacy and numeracy as a key priority, with Basic Education Minister Siviwe Gwarube emphasising that learners who do not master these skills will struggle to progress in gateway subjects such as Mathematics and Science.

The 24SumMore approach starts with a simple idea: children are more likely to engage with something they enjoy. By linking maths with competition, curiosity and achievement, rather than only classroom tests and correct answers, it builds skills, logical thinking, problem-solving, perseverance and decision-making, that learners carry well beyond the classroom.

Opening up the playing field

This initiative celebrates young mathematical talent, and brings schools, teachers, parents and communities into the experience.

For teachers, it builds enthusiasm and confidence around mathematics; for schools, it celebrates learners whose strengths aren’t always showcased through traditional academic measures; for families, it’s a fun way to bring maths into everyday conversation.

And for learners, one question keeps coming back: can you make 24, fast enough to become national champion and win R25 000 in a Peregrine Capital investment account, plus R25 000 for your school.

More than a CSI initiative

For Peregrine Capital, 24SumMore represents something bigger than a traditional corporate social investment programme: an opportunity to invest in capability, confidence and future potential, helping young South Africans develop skills that will remain relevant throughout their education and working lives.

Jacques Conradie, CEO of Peregrine Capital (and a Maths24 national champion himself when he was at school), said: “We don’t see 24SumMore as simply a CSI programme or a maths competition. We see it as an investment in capability. When a young person becomes more confident with numbers, they are developing more than mathematical ability — they are developing the confidence to solve problems, make decisions and engage with the world around them. And having some fun at the same time. That is the kind of investment we want Peregrine Capital to be known for: Creating opportunities today that can expand what is possible for young South Africans tomorrow.”

The road to the Finals

The national final will bring together 36 learners* who have progressed through the competition’s various stages to compete for the 2026 24SumMore title.

Event details:

What: Peregrine Capital 24SumMore Mathematics National Finals Competition

When: Thursday, 29 October 2026 at 12:30

Where: St Andrew’s School for Girls, Bedfordview, Johannesburg

Who: 36 Grade 4–6 finalists from more than 300 schools nationwide

Looking ahead to 2027

Following the final, Peregrine Capital will invite primary schools across South Africa to register their interest in the 2027 24SumMore Mathematics Competition.

Schools interested in participating in 2027 can register their interest at 24summore@peregrine.co.za.

If your school believes maths should be something learners look forward to, 24SumMore is ready for your classroom.

Peregrine Capital is an authorised Financial Services Provider.

*A full list of the 36 finalists, together with photographs from their semi-final wins, is available to media on request.