MAG urged to develop modern training modules for mathematics

Ms. Sherry Ayitey, the Minister of Environment, Science and Technology, has appealed to the Mathematical Association of Ghana (MAG) to develop modern training modules that will produce more science and mathematically centered specialists for the teaching of science and mathematics.

She said science and technology was the engine of growth and mathematics was its driving force, therefore, the need to demystify its teaching and learning through the introduction of more student-friendly and innovative methods of teaching.

Ms. Ayitey made the appeal in a speech read for her during the 38th Conference of MAG, held at the Wa campus of the University for Development Studies on Tuesday.

The conference was on the theme: “Challenges facing the Teaching and learning of Mathematics in this Technological Age”.

She said it was being suggested that two-thirds of the 38 diploma awarding Teacher Training Colleges should be adequately equipped and staffed to concentrate on preparing their students for the teaching of mathematics, science and technology based subjects.

This, she said, would enable such colleges to concentrate on the latest methods and ways of disseminating science and mathematics based knowledge.

Mr. Charles Aheto-Tsegah, the Deputy Director-General of Education in-charge of Quality and Assurance, suggested that candidates with weak passes, especially D7 in mathematics should not be considered for admission into Colleges of Education.

He said mathematics was a foundational subject and people without a proper foundation in mathematics would not be good materials in the teaching of science and mathematics.

Mr. Aheto-Tsegah commended MAG for their effort and said with technology at the forefront, they were on their way to making the teaching and learning of mathematics more exciting and interesting for both teachers and students.

Ms. Adwoa Nkrumah, the National President of MAG, said the Association which was founded in the 1960s under the name “Mathematics Association of Teachers (MAT)” had expanded its branches to cover all 10 regions of the country and now has membership of about 3,000.

She said MAG’s objectives include improving the teaching and learning of mathematics at all levels, acquainting members with new trends in the teaching and learning of mathematics as well as initiating and developing links between mathematics teachers, their students and other institutions requiring the use of mathematics.

Ms. Nkrumah cited non-payment of membership dues by members, lack of commitment on the part of some Regional Executives and lack of sponsorship as the major challenges facing MAG.

Alhaji Amidu Sulemana, Upper West Regional Minister, said the teaching and learning of mathematics had lately come under scrutiny during the release of most examination results because of the poor performance of students in those subjects.

He shared the same view with the Deputy Director-General of Education that people with weak grades in mathematics should not be given admission to pursue mathematics courses at the tertiary level.