By Samuel SAM
Dean-Faculty for Physical Sciences, University for Development Studies (UDS), Professor Ibrahim Yakubu Seini has called for increased promotion of Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) education in rural schools to help build a just and equitable society.
Delivering the 17th UDS Professorial Inaugural Lecture on the theme ‘Beyond Computations: Mathematics is Key to National Development’, Prof. Seini emphasised the need to prioritise mathematics education – particularly in underserved areas where resources are scarce.
“No nation can develop without mathematics, which is key to unlocking the potential in students and preparing them for future opportunities. Mathematics drives innovation and is essential in addressing global challenges such as climate change, healthcare and cybersecurity,” he stated.
He noted that mathematics enhances critical thinking and problem-solving skills, helping students grasp fundamental scientific concepts while fostering creativity. He therefore urged government and stakeholders to invest in and encourage more students to pursue mathematics and secure a better future.
The event attracted faculty members, scholars, students and research fellows, who engaged in discussions on the importance of mathematical education for national development.
Prof. Seini highlighted how mathematics has opened career opportunities in emerging fields such as artificial intelligence (AI), robotics, machine learning and climate science. He also stressed the need to bridge gender and diversity gaps by encouraging underrepresented groups to take up mathematical sciences to ensure a broad and inclusive talent pool that drives innovation.
“It is for this reason that government establishing the STEM Model Senior High Schools across the country is laudable,” he added.
Vice-Chancellor of UDS, Prof. Seidu Al-Hassan, commended Prof. Seini for his research, noting that it will help increase awareness and inspire more youth to pursue mathematics.
“Mathematics is a critical pillar of national development and we at UDS are proud to champion this conversation and encourage more young people to take an interest in mathematics and its applications,” he stated.
Prof. Al-Hassan further urged teachers to adopt engaging and simplified teaching methods to make mathematics more accessible and interesting to students.
He reiterated the university’s commitment to conducting more research that contributes to national discourse and development.
