The Federal Government has emphasised commitment to work with stakeholders in the education sector to unravel the mysteries in mathematics and make it attractive to students.
The government said although students view Mathematics as a difficult subject in school, efforts are ongoing to create the right environment to make learning the basic science subject interesting.
The Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Education, David Adejo Andrew, represented by Elizabeth Afabe at the 20th Annual National Mathematics Competition (ANMC), hosted by the Nigerian Tulip International College said the era of students jumping out of class when the maths teacher enters is over.
“Being a maths teacher, I know how students feel when it comes to the subject of mathematics. I taught further mathematics and mathematics for 20 to 25 years. I know what I went through as a teacher, getting the students to love the subject.
“We are demystifying mathematics among students in schools, we know they hate maths because you see them jumping out of the windows once the teacher comes in. But we are creating the right environment for them to learn.”
A former Speaker of the House of Representatives, Ghali Na’Abba, who spoke at the event said he was elated that efforts to make children love Maths has now been put in motion.
The former speaker said he hoped to see the private sector participating in such endeavours through the National Mathematical Centre.
“We know what mathematics means in education and I am happy children are encouraged to pursue a career in mathematics. I would like to see more exposure and support, especially by the private sector.”
Meanwhile, the Director National Mathematical Centre (NMC), Professor Promise Mebine commended the NTIC for its efforts in sharpening students across the country and contributing to the development of the education system in Nigeria.
Represented by Professor Jonathan Ogidi, the NMC Director said the centre’s relationship with NTIC is symbiotic one as both parties benefit from each other.
In his address, the Director, NTIC, Fevzullah Bilgin, said the ANMC is to harness and sharpen young mathematics minds to become proficient in sciences.
“Mathematics is a critical part of modern life, a fundamental branch of science essential for understanding and analyzing the world around us.
The national mathematics competition is the largest academic event for math enthusiasts in Primary 5, Primary 6, and JSS 3 organised by the NTIC in collaboration with the National Mathematics Centre.
The competition recognises outstanding performances in mathematics among young students and aims to produce exceptional scientists for the country in future.
