Students of Mathematics have been urged to seek knowledge and skills beyond the classroom if they are to contribute effectively to solving global problems.
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!The appeal was made by Dr. Proscovia Namayanja, Associate Dean of the Faculty of Science at Kabale University, during the celebration of International Day of Mathematics, held at the institution located in Kabale District, Southwestern Uganda.
The event was attended by mathematics students, university lecturers, secondary school teachers, political leaders, media representatives, and other stakeholders.
Dr. Namayanja encouraged mathematics students to acquire diverse skills through participating in workshops, internships, and voluntary service to gain practical experience.
“We cannot teach you everything you need to succeed; therefore, you must go out and develop additional skills that will complement your career in mathematics,” she stated.
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Mr. Kansiime Geofrey, a Teaching Assistant in the Department of Mathematics at Kabale University, reminded mathematics teachers that the new competence-based curriculum requires students to be assessed based on their ability to apply knowledge to solve real-life problems. He emphasized that students should undertake mathematical projects involving investigation and practical application, while assessments should measure their capacity to utilize mathematics in everyday life.
“I have solved the mathematical problem that the LCM of 4 and 3 is 12. So what? How will that help bring food to my table or decongest ATM areas at banks?” he questioned. He added that all assessment tasks should encourage learners to apply skills that address real-world challenges.
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In her presentation, Ms. Flavia Akankwasa, a mathematics teacher at St. Joseph’s Secondary School Mparo in Rukiga District, praised global efforts to increase the number of female students pursuing mathematics at higher secondary and university levels, an achievement that was rare in the past.
“When we were growing up, it seemed strange for a girl to specialize in mathematics. Many believed we wouldn’t manage because it’s a very difficult subject for girls. However, with hope, resilience, and optimism, some of us have succeeded in breaking those traditional barriers,” she said.
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Meanwhile, the event saw the launch of the Kabale University Mathematics Club. Badru Damulira, a Bachelor’s degree student in Science with Education (Mathematics and Physics), was unveiled as the club’s president.
In his speech, Damulira explained that the club’s primary goal is to promote mathematics within and beyond Kabale University and to serve as a platform for knowledge sharing.
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International Day of Mathematics Day (IDM), celebrated annually on March 14 (3/14), underscores the vital role of mathematical sciences in daily life and modern technology. Often associated with Pi Day, IDM features educational activities and a unique yearly theme to showcase the beauty and importance of mathematics.
Proclaimed by UNESCO’s 40th General Conference in November 2019, the first official IDM was held in 2020. The theme for 2026 is “Mathematics and Hope,” highlighting how mathematical thinking can help address global challenges, interpret complex data, and foster international cooperation.
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