Don harps on policies to encourage study of mathematics

A Professor of Mathematics at the Federal University, Lokoja, Professor Musa Adeku Ibrahim has stressed the need for government at all levels to formulate policies that will encourage the study of Mathematics in the nation’s primary, secondary and tertiary institutions.

Ibrahim made the call while delivering the 24th inaugural lecture of the FUL held at the College of Health Sciences of the institution.

ALSO READ FROM NIGERIAN TRIBUNE : Don asks women to pursue scholarship in Islamic Law

In his lecture titled ‘Unraveling the Tapestry of Non-classical Set Theory: Navigating Novel Paths In Understanding Life’s Complexities’, the don advised that such policies must be attractive to raise the morale and interest of the children to study Mathematics right from the basic, secondary and tertiary education levels.

“Such policies should also provide incentives and enabling conditions that would promote learning and teaching of the subject at the nation’s educational institutions,” he said.

Ibrahim lamented the long-time poor perception of our children in the study of Mathematics as a result of what they considered as the abstract nature of the subject, saying that the government should look inward to embark on policies and strategies that would change the trend for the better.

He described Mathematics as a crucial subject that reflects in all courses of human endeavours, which should not be allowed to collapse.

According to him, “Mathematics is really true science of the mind where logic and rigour reign supreme. It touches on all sectors of the nation’s education and socioeconomic development, hence the need to encourage the study of the course

“We delve into the essence of non-classical set theory, exploring its fundamental principles and the rich tapestry of alternative approaches it offers for understanding life’s complexities.

“This aligns closely with our lived experiences, where identities are shaped by a multitude of factors such as culture, upbringing, and personal beliefs, reflecting their dynamic and multifaceted nature.

“Furthermore, nonclassical set theory provides invaluable tools for navigating the complexities of decision-making and reasoning in everyday life.

“By embracing alternative approaches and challenging traditional paradigms, we gain deeper insights into the rich and diverse fabric of our existence, empowering
us to navigate its complexities with clarity, resilience, and wisdom.

“Mathematics is the science of structure and the relationships among these structures. Abstract reasoning leads to precise and profound results, and it is often regarded as a true ‘science of the mind’.

“As a tool: Mathematics is an invaluable instrument for gaining deep insights into other disciplines. Logic and Mathematics: An Interwoven Foundation

“What is Mathematics? Mathematics is the study of patterns, structures, and relationships, developed through rigorous reasoning and abstraction. Its methods rely heavily on logical deduction to establish truths that are consistent and universal.

“The interplay between logic and mathematics has practical implications, especially in computer science, artificial intelligence, and cryptography.

“Human nature is intricate and multifaceted, influenced by a wide range of cognitive and emotional processes.

“This exploration will use the frameworks of set-theoretic and fuzzy traits to analyze how humans approach decision-making, emotional responses, and interpersonal interactions with the world.”

In his welcome address, the Vice Chancellor of the Federal University, Lokoja, Professor Olayemi Akinwum, and described the mathematical lecture as timely and relevant in the scholarly and intellectual contribution to the academic circle.

“This series of inaugural lectures is a way of celebrating academic excellence and most significant tradition in educational institutions world over,” the VC affirmed.

He appreciated Professor Musa Adeku Ibrahim, whom he rated as an erudite scholar who knows his onions in promoting academic excellence.