Prof. Kenneth Nnadi, an economist, has advised parents and guardians to encourage children to study Mathematics because it was the driving force behind technological advancement.
Nnadi, a senior lecturer in the Department of Maritime Management Technology, Federal University of Technology, Owerri (FUTO), made the call in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Minna, on Saturday.
“Mathematics is the key to every science discipline; it sharpens intelligent quotient and boosts confidence and courage.
“Prospective scholars must dare Mathematics; the dearth of mathematicians will impede global progress and force the world to a standstill.
“It is Mathematics that gives precision, accuracy and quantitative index to everything people do. If you cannot measure, how can you move forward?
“Part of the reasons why developing countries move slowly is because people are not studying Mathematics; the few that did, hardly stay in the country. ”
He regretted that the subject was poorly taught because good teachers were difficult to find, and advised the Federal Government to effectively fund the Federal Mathematical Centre and offer scholarships to deserving people.
“Conscious efforts should be made to attract people into studying Mathematics. Parents, whose children show interest in the subject should encourage such students to study it.
“I did not study Mathematics because I lacked the courage to do so; but I encouraged my daughter, Nkechi, to do so and she bagged a “First Class” honours from FUT, Owerri,” he revealed.
He urged the Federal Government to encourage people interested in Mathematics, declaring that such people had “plenty to offer Nigeria”.
