'Poor maths teaching hurting careers in sciences'

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A Makerere University academic has emphasised the need for schools to deploy well-qualified mathematics teachers, warning that the failure to do so has not only instilled fear of the subject among learners but has also hindered the production of scientists, particularly among girls.

Professor John Magero Mango, head of the Mathematics Department at Makerere University, described mathematics as the foundation of scientific knowledge. He cautioned that students who fear mathematics risk failing to achieve their aspirations of becoming scientists or pursuing their dream careers.

“Mathematics is one of the easiest subjects, but the problem is that some schools deploy teachers who fail to simplify equations for learners, making them hate the subject. Let us use the right teachers to teach mathematics,” Mango said.

He added that excelling in mathematics makes other science combinations easier, yet the country currently has only 25% female space science engineers.

He stressed the need to bridge this gender gap to achieve a 50-50 balance.

Mango made these remarks while addressing students and teachers at the International Day of Mathematics celebration, held at Tororo Girls’ School under the theme “Mathematics, Art, and Creation.” Experts from Makerere, Busitema, and Kyambogo universities delivered inspirational talks, and winners of the mathematics marathon were awarded medals.

Encouraging girls in mathematics

The event, organised by the Association of Women Mathematicians Uganda (ASWoM) and Busitema University, began with a ‘Math Run’ aimed at inspiring girls to integrate mathematics into their daily lives.

Dr Engineer Ziria Tibalwa Waako, the executive director of the Electricity Regulatory Authority, encouraged students to view mathematics as a tool for problem-solving.

“The subject is a pillar. The new curriculum reflects the necessity of mathematics. I encourage you to embrace it because it’s possible for you to excel in the future,” Tibalwa said.

Mango revealed that he has used his expertise to lobby for funding to support 36 PhD graduates in mathematics across the country. He urged girls to take an interest in the subject, emphasising that they too could achieve such academic heights.

Overcoming barriers in maths education

Busitema University Vice Chancellor, Prof. Paul Waako, shared his personal experience, regretting that he missed the opportunity to become an engineer due to poor mathematics instruction in his school.

“I pursued a doctorate, but my life was never the same because I didn’t achieve my dream. I appeal to learners to see mathematics as a pillar,” Waako said.

Meanwhile, ASWoM president Prof. Betty Nanyonga, encouraged students to use their experience from the Math Walk to reflect on the importance of mathematics, reminding them that whenever they feel exhausted, they should find solutions—just as they would in mathematical problem-solving.

Dr Rebecca Nalule, chairperson of the Mathematics Department at Busitema University, urged students to draw inspiration from the event and develop a passion for mathematics.