Our suggestions to policy makers on Maths as a subject

Mathematics is a dreaded subject by a large percentage of students. Aunty ‘Yemi spoke with some Mathematics club members of FEDMAT College, Akobo-Ojuirin, Olorunda Aaba, Ibadan, who are winners of the Mathematics Olympiad, on factors responsible for their success and experiences with classmates who are deficient in the subject.

Judah-Samuel Oladele, 13 yrs old, SSS 2

I have been taking the first position in Mathematics since I was in primary school so calculation has been a part of me. The first time I participated in a competition, I took 36th position among about 1,000 students. I was privileged to be the National Winner in Mathematics Olympiad 2022 conducted by the Mathematics Association of Nigeria (M.A.N) and second position in Nigeria in African Mathematics Olympiad 2023 at the senior category. I suggest that policy makers in the educational sector should assist schools by establishing Mathematics laboratory like we have for other science subjects. This will create another environment out of the four walls of the classroom. Government should also sponsor competitions where geniuses would be discovered. Students too should practice maths a part of their daily exercise.

Shinaayomi Ajayi, 16 yrs old, SSS 3

I think the factors responsible for students running away from maths is their brain capacity to comprehend formulas, interest in calculations and laziness. Some do not want to task their brain because the subject requires critical thinking. Six years ago, I was bad in student in maths but what helped me to become an award winer are my mother’s contribution to my work, my late father’s role and my maths teacher, Mr. Samuel Ajayi called ‘Mr. Calculus.’ He is the best Mathematics teacher I have ever met. I was 2022 M.A.N Olympiad National Winner at Abeokuta, Ogun State. If I could do it, any other person can.

In ensuring that students no longer run away from Mathematics and also produce thoroughbred students, schools must employ capable teachers who would make mathematics a fun subject so as to win the students over. Also, schools should organize friendly maths competitions among students.

Ayomikun Adigun, 13 yrs old, SSS 1

The privilege of being a member of Mathematics club in my school among other clubs has afforded me a great opportunity to represent and make my school, family and friends proud by winning laurels. My first competition in this school did not go down well and I cried so much but later encouraged myself. My next competition was 2022 M.A.N.

As a way to further boost students’ interest in maths, I advise that government at all levels to organise competitions as private organisations do, award scholarships to outstanding students, set aside a day tagged ‘Mathematics Day’ at state and national levels to celebrate the positive impact of the subject in nation building.

Faridah Adewole

Mathematics is important in all areas therefore students should have strong foundation with close monitoring. In the club, we enjoy this and it has earned us awards. It would in turn boost science/technology in our country.

I learnt that Mathematics is given maximum attention in China and this has resulted in the unimaginable development in their technology and science.

Policies made in education should be favourable to students, teachers and school owners. Example is writing of WAEC examination as Computer Based Test (CBT) to curb examination malpractice. It would be a great challenge for students in subjects like Mathematics, which requires calculations solely. Such decision has to be reviewed in order not to cause problems for students.

Oladapo Salam, 15 yrs old, SSS 3

Every day, I dedicate about three hours to solving questions and this has helped me to be better by the day. Before I could join my school’s representatives to competitions, hard work, dedication and discipline worked for me. I feel honoured and special representing my school.

The educational sector should allocate teachers capable of teaching the subject to schools and create platforms to make mathematics easy to learn. Science deals with maths calculations and for the development of the nation in relation to science, mathematics should be applied.

Bright Akintunde, 14 yrs old, SSS 1

I am good at calculating numbers. I was not the best in primary school but was never below third position. In order to be above board, I solve maths problems for about 5 daily, solving questions ahead of the class. It feels good to be among contestants.

Many students avoid mathematics because it is challenging. I think the education sector should be more rewarding to students who perform excellently in maths. That way, more students will be motivated to try. Mathematics makes one smart, while solving problems assures one that there is always a solution.

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