Mathematics instructors drawn from Osogbo Federal Constituency have benefited from a five-day training programme that recently took place at the National Mathematical Center in Abuja(NMC).
The programme, sponsored by the legislator representing the territory, Hon. Olubukola Oyewo, exposed the teachers to modern techniques in teaching and the application of mathematics kits.
The beneficiaries went home with a new orientation to help them to effectively impart the knowledge drawn from the programme. Each of the teachers also received a certificate of participation and an allowance.
Speaking during a session to mark the commencement of the workshop on Wednesday, March 22, 2023, one of the resource persons and staff of NMC, Dr. Tunji Jekayinfa, stated that the workshop was aimed at expanding the knowledge of mathematics and changing the wrong perception most students have regarding the subject, stressing that it will help to improve Nigeria’s technological sector.
“The focus of this professional development for math teachers involves learning new teaching techniques and methodology as the world around us adapts and changes, as well as strategies for making the subject an enjoyable one for students, “Dr. Jekayinfa emphasized.
The event included training in the use of ASEI-PDSI method of teaching, adoption of learner-centered approach, incorporation of role-play, improvisation and inclusion of field experiments during class sessions.
Addressing the attendees at the end of the programme, Hon. Olubukola Oyewo said the participants were carefully selected and drawn from Osogbo, Olorunda, Irepodun and Orolu as part of the efforts to enhance the quality of mathematics education in schools across his territory.
“I believe that part of my responsibility as a representative is to improve the standard of education in my jurisdiction. To achieve this goal, capacity building training for school instructors is necessary.”
According to the lawmaker, his passion for math and its importance in the society, are some of the factors that propelled him to sponsor the workshop for teachers in Osogbo Federal Constituency.
“We want to ensure practical teaching of math and also that the teachers who are teaching this important subject are developed through trainings and workshops. We are also interested in supporting pupils to improve their performance in a subject that is erroneously regarded as difficult to comprehend,” he stated.
On what was expected from those that benefited from the activity, the Chairman House of Representatives Committee on Water Resources stated that they should replicate the same level of knowledge when they get back to their respective academic institutions, noting this will have a multiplier effect on the teaching and learning of mathematics in the area.
He appreciated the authorities of NMC for providing a conducive atmosphere for the training, as well as using their best hands as facilitators.
Some of the teachers, who spoke on the last day of the exercise in Abuja, commended the federal parliamentarian for the opportunity and assured that they would replicate the experience and knowledge in their schools for the benefit of those who did not participate and their students.
