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Doesoneneed to be agenius to do maths? What are the chances that parents are discouraging children fromexcelling maths from a much youngerage?
Experts arewarning that the manner in which mathematicsis portrayed to a child determines their ability toexcel in the subject lateron.
The Commissioner forHuman Resources, Science and technologyat theAfrican Union, Dr. Martial De-Paul Ikounga said mathematics should be demystified through progressive trainings that presentitas auniversal language; a language that can be learnt from the earliestage andby everybody – not justby a few talented people.
"Thisis necessary if we are to increase thenumbers of children andyouthexcelling in science and maths.Itwill provide a rich pipeline for researchers and career scientists in order to harness Africa's demographic dividend for achieving a prosperous Africa," said Ikounga.
He further explained that to ensure that science solves Africa's challenges,itwas imperative that the quality ofeducation and training beimproved through aparadigmshift that involves student centered approaches.
He also said linkagesbetween theeducation and productive sectors wouldimprove competences and skills forentrepreneurship, innovation and creativity.
Ikoungamade the remarks recently during a gathering of young African scientistsat theNextEinstein Forum Dakar,Senegal.
Named after German's famous physicist AlbertEinstein, theNextEinstein Forum (NEF)is a global meet intended to strengthen the continent's positionon the scientific stage.
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