Over 3,200 children compete in 22nd Telangana Regional Prodigy Championship in Shamshabad

A record 3,200 children aged between 5 and 14 years from across Telangana participated in the 22nd Telangana Regional Prodigy Championship 2026 at Classic Convention Three in Shamshabad on Sunday, 12 July 2026. Organized by SIP Abacus, the event focused on showcasing and testing the mental arithmetic and concentration skills of young students.

One of the most anticipated highlights of the championship was a unique Concentration Round, which was conducted immediately after the main competition. This innovative round tested the ability of the children to maintain their focus and concentration despite distractions, a skill that organizers and experts highlighted as increasingly valued in today’s fast-paced digital world.

During the event, education experts and organizers spoke about the relevance of traditional mental training in the modern era. Addressing the students, Pannuru Prabhakar, the Principal of ARCA Global International School, explained how ancient India recognized the importance of mathematics centuries ago. He emphasized that the significance of these mathematical foundations remains completely unchanged, even in the current era of Artificial Intelligence.

Dinesh Victor, the Founder and Managing Director of SIP Academy India, also spoke on the theme of "Abacus Training in the Age of AI." He addressed the common belief that children no longer need mental arithmetic because computers and AI can perform calculations instantly.

Victor stated that the reality is exactly the opposite of this assumption. He explained that while AI can provide quick answers, abacus training develops the mind that asks the right questions. He concluded by noting that AI gives information, but abacus training builds essential brain power.

The championship highlighted the benefits of abacus training for developing concentration, mental arithmetic, and critical thinking in the digital age.