Nineveh prodigy to represent Iraq in international math competition

NINEVEH — At just nine years old, Mustafa Abdul Khudair is capturing attention for his extraordinary mathematical abilities, which include rapid mental calculations and reciting large numbers with ease. A third-grade student at Al-Tamouh Primary School in Tel Afar, Mustafa has also memorized four parts of the Quran and holds the title of Iraq’s “Champion of Champions” for four consecutive years. Now, he is preparing to represent Iraq in an international competition in France.

“I am a third-grade student learning Soroban under my teacher Kifah Hassan,” Mustafa told 964media. “I aspire to compete in global competitions, earn the title of World Champion, and represent Iraq with pride.”

Mustafa’s journey began at the age of five, under the guidance of Kifah Hassan, a member of the International Federation of Soroban and Vedic Math. “Mustafa started training with me when he was just five years old,” said Hassan. “By six, he had already claimed first place in Iraq. He is currently Iraq’s Champion of Champions for four years running. We are now preparing for him to participate in the international competition in France, where he will represent Iraq.”

In addition to his mathematical prowess, Mustafa has excelled in Quran memorization, securing first place in Nineveh governorate for his achievements. “He can now read numbers up to 42 digits and is continuously progressing,” Hassan added.

To honor his achievements, the University of Tel Afar awarded Mustafa and his coach the “Shield of Creativity.” The university’s president, Abdul Aziz Ahmed, expressed pride in Mustafa’s talents and hopes for his future contributions to Iraq.

“This scientific talent is one we aim to nurture at the University of Tel Afar,” said Ahmed. “We welcomed this gifted student with joy and hope to see him represent Iraq on the global stage. I also wish to see him one day as a member of our faculty, contributing specialized expertise to our society.”