By Sarah NEGEDU
Parents have been urged to help their children overcome the fear of mathematics by creating supportive learning environments at home and encouraging early interest in the subject.
The call was made in Abuja by Miss Stella Edechukwu, a student of Applied Mathematics at the National Open University of Nigeria, NOUN, during an award presentation to outstanding pupils and students of Samuelson International School, Lugbe.
Edechukwu, who is also an African Union, AU, Mathematics Ambassador, said many children struggle with the subject because early anxiety is left unaddressed, leaving pupils to grow with the belief that mathematics is inherently difficult.
She explained that her own decision to study mathematics at the university was driven by a desire to help young learners and adults confront and overcome the phobia associated with the subject.
According to her, one of the creative approaches she has introduced is the use of poetry to simplify mathematical concepts, mirroring methods commonly used in teaching English and literature.
She said children connect better with what they can visualise, adding that linking mathematics to real-life situations makes it less intimidating for learners at the foundational level.
Edechukwu noted that she is currently working with the Maths Ambassador, STEAM, and the African Mathematics Project under the African Union to promote materials that make the subject more relatable across Nigerian schools.
As part of the group’s work, she said a mathematics dictionary has been developed for primary and secondary schools to help pupils grasp definitions and formulas with greater ease.
She added that she has also published a collection of poems aimed at demystifying the subject and improving children’s confidence to attempt mathematical problems and participate in competitions.
The proprietress of Samuelson International School, Mrs Angela Ukwu, said the institution was recently recognised by the African Mathematics Project as one of the fastest-growing schools in Abuja in terms of students’ performance in core subjects.
Ukwu said the school’s steady progress is the result of teamwork, the support of her husband, and the commitment of teachers who invest time in building the confidence of pupils across subjects.
She congratulated the awardees for their achievements and urged those who did not receive certificates to work harder, noting that academic competitions help children build character and resilience.
Ukwu also disclosed that following a performance assessment, the school had qualified to participate in the upcoming African Mathematics Project Competition, describing the development as another milestone for the institution.
Some of the young recipients who spoke with our correspondent expressed excitement over the recognition and promised to keep improving.
Miss Benita Beshel, a Primary 1 pupil, said the award had motivated her to take mathematics more seriously.
Similarly, Bethel Chukwu and Samuel Ukwu thanked the organisers for the honour and said they looked forward to representing the school in future competitions.
