School Outreach Prog: Math phobia attribute of ‘outdated teaching’ methods, societal perceptions: Experts

Srinagar, Dec 01: The Department of Mathematics, University of Kashmir (KU), in collaboration with the Kashmir Mathematical Society (KMS) and JK Science, Technology and Innovation Council (JKSTIC), concluded the 4th phase of its ‘School Outreach Programme’ for the ‘Popularization of Mathematics’ with its last leg held at Government Higher Secondary School (GHSS) Hawal, Pulwama.
Over 100 students and teachers from various high and higher secondary schools of the district participated in the programme.
The school outreach campaign aimed to orient students towards developing an interest in mathematics by emphasising its essence and applications in real-life scenarios and encouraging enrollment in mathematics and basic science courses at higher levels.
In a special message, KU Vice Chancellor, Prof Nilofer Khan, commended the Department of Mathematics and the collaborating partners for the initiative.
She said, “Mathematics is a cornerstone of scientific progress and innovation and inspiring young minds in this discipline is essential for societal and national development.”
While congratulating the organisers for their efforts and encouraging students to embrace the beauty and utility of mathematics, she said: “Through outreach programmes, KU aims to promote mathematics education across the region, with special focus on school children.”
During the session at Pulwama, former Head, Department of Mathematics, KU, Prof M H Gulzar, emphasised the role of mathematics in solving real-life problems.
Programme Convener and Head, Department of Mathematics, Prof M A Khanday, highlighted the importance of building a strong foundation in mathematics at elementary levels.
“There is a strong need for quality curricula and skilled teachers to promote conceptual and experiential learning,” he stressed.
Dr Muzafar Rasool, faculty, Department of Computer Sciences, Islamic University of Science and Technology (IUST), delivered a lecture on the role of mathematics in Artificial Intelligence and Data Science, describing it as the “backbone of technology”.
“Math phobia is a significant challenge and is an attribute of ‘outdated teaching’ methods and societal perceptions,” he maintained.
The programme also included lectures and interactions with experts including Prof Mushtaq Ali Mir (Ex-Principal, GDC Pulwama); Chief Education Officer (CEO), Pulwama, Manzoor A Khan; and Zonal Education Officer (ZEO), Pulwama, Shaista Drabu.
Principal GHSS Hawal, Pulwama, Nusrat Manzoor; and Senior Lecturer Mathematics, Arshad H Wani, also shared insights adding value to the discussions and interactive sessions.
A panel discussion on ‘Current Scenario of Mathematics Education in Pulwama District: Challenges and Remedies’ provided a platform for teachers, students and experts to share experiences and propose solutions to improve mathematics education in the region.
The Department of Mathematics thanked all participants and stakeholders for their contributions in ensuring the programme’s successful culmination.
Vice Principal, GHSS Hawal, Arshad H Wani, proposed the formal vote of thanks on the occasion.
The university is undertaking several initiatives to orient school students to overcome the phobia of mathematics and inspire them to develop an interest towards mathematics.