Srinagar, Oct 12: To focus on acquainting students with the significance of mathematics and its relevance in the modern digital era, the Department of Mathematics, University of Kashmir (KU), in collaboration with the Kashmir Mathematical Society (KMS) and the Chief Education Office, Bandipora, organised an awareness-cum-outreach programme for high school students of district Bandipora.
The event was held at Girls High School Plan, Bandipora and aimed to encourage interest in mathematics at the school level to address the declining enrollment of students in the subject after the 10th grade across the Kashmir region.
In a statement, KU Vice Chancellor, Prof Nilofer Khan, commended the Department of Mathematics for organising this outreach programme, which serves as a crucial step towards addressing the declining interest in mathematics among students in the Kashmir region.
“Mathematics is not just a subject confined to classrooms, it is a key to unlocking new horizons in various fields. I hope that this programme will motivate young minds to pursue mathematics and contribute to the development of our society,” Prof Khan said.
Chief Education Officer, Bandipora, Kishore Kumar, who inaugurated the programme, lauded KU’s Department of Mathematics and KMS for their initiative.
He said, “Such awareness programmes are crucial for the welfare of students and society. Mathematics is not just a subject but a fundamental skill that shapes our problem-solving abilities in everyday life.”
In his keynote address on ‘Effective Pedagogy in Mathematics and its Applications’, Head, Department of Mathematics, KU and Convener of the programme, Prof Mukhtar A Khanday, emphasised the practical importance of mathematics.
He said, “Mathematics is embedded in our daily experiences, and teachers play a vital role in guiding students by creating a student-centric classroom environment. There is a need to employ innovative pedagogies to inspire students and make the subject more relatable.”
Deputy Director, Sheep Husbandry, Budgam, Dr Mohammad Maroof Shah, motivated students to consider mathematics as a career path.
“Pursuing mathematics not only enhances one’s analytical skills but also provides the wisdom to solve complex problems on both local and international levels,” he added.
Head, Department of Statistics, SKUAST Wadura, Prof Bilal Ahmad, discussed the application of data in real-life situations using mathematical tools.
Head, Department of Mathematics, Central University of Kashmir (CUK), Dr H R Bhapkar, engaged the students with memory-based arithmetic problems.
Over 100 students from various schools participated in the programme and presented their mathematical models before experts and received certificates in recognition of their efforts.
The programme concluded with an interactive session wherein the students and escort teachers shared their thoughts and feedback with the experts who addressed their queries on the spot.
Arsalan Habib and Mushtaq Ahmad Malik from the CEO’s Office jointly conducted the proceedings and vote of thanks on the occasion.
