With the rapid development of computer technology, computer systems become widely used for problem solving in areas like scientific research, commerce and industry, and also the daily life of many people. For example, computer systems are often used for processing and analysis of large amount of data. Behind these systems, what is the design of the computational process and how is the system built? From the discovery of problem, construction of model, analysis of data, realization through computer programming, up to the final application in real situation, these processes are both challenging and interesting.

COSMO is co-organized by the Department of Systems Engineering and Engineering Department (SEEM) and The Hong Kong Association for Computer Education (HKACE) for all high school students. The purpose of this competition is to encourage students to actively study mathematics and hence tries to improve their ability in building system model, use of mathematical method and computer technology to solve problem. Through the participation in extra-curricular activities, students can also increase their exposure, develop a creative mind and better prepare for their tertiary education.