Abuja, Nigeria — Participants of the two-week Foundation Post Graduate Course on Abstract Algebra have urged the Federal Government to prioritize funding for the training and retraining of mathematical scientists in Abstract Algebra to prevent this critical area of mathematics from fading into obscurity.
In a communiqué issued at the course’s closing ceremony held on Thursday, December 5, 2024, in Abuja, participants highlighted the vital role of the National Mathematical Centre (NMC) since its establishment in 1988. The Centre has remained steadfast in ensuring that research, teaching, and learning in specialized areas of mathematics are relevant and vibrant within Nigeria’s education sector.
The Director-General of the National Mathematical Centre, Prof. Promise Mebine, emphasized the Centre’s commitment to its mandate over the past 36 years. She noted that the NMC continues to produce highly skilled manpower to meet the academic needs of the country’s educational system across all levels.
From L – R: Prof Temitope Jaiyeola from University of Lagos. Prof Promise Mebine, DG, NMC and Prof James Ajie, Coordinator, Mathematics Program, NMC, Abuja at the Closing Ceremony of a two week Foundation Post Graduate Course on Abstract Algebra.
One of the resource persons, Prof. Temitope Jaiyeola, who occupies the Pastor E. A. Adeboye Professorial Chair of Mathematics at the University of Lagos, underscored the importance of consistent development in the mathematical sciences. He stressed that Nigeria must equip its academic personnel with advanced training to ensure high-quality education and competitiveness on a global scale.
Meanwhile, the Coordinator of the Mathematics Program at the NMC, Prof. James Ajie, praised the postgraduate students for their enthusiastic engagement throughout the course. He encouraged them to apply the knowledge gained to practical and academic endeavors.
Participants in a group photograph with NMC officials and Resource Persons.
The participants collectively called on the Federal Government to recognize the critical importance of Abstract Algebra and provide the necessary resources to strengthen research and education in the field, ensuring its continued contribution to the advancement of mathematics in Nigeria.
