From our news desk, Benin
Prof Goddy Ujagbe Agbeboh at AAU 109th Inaugural Lecture
The use of mathematics as a tool for National growth, development, and the fight against various security challenges facing the Nigeria nation has been advocated.
Goddy Ujagbe Agbeboh, a professor of mathematics made the advocacy a couple of days ago at the 109th inaugural lecture of the Ambrose Alli University, Ekpoma; titled: 'Demystifying Mathematics'.
The teaching and study of mathematics has been variously perceived as a "not to be attempted missionary journey" he noted.
But it is one of the easiest of all the sciences that are key to the development and growth of any nation, Agbeboh pointed out.
According to him, developed nations have taken advantage of their mathematical knowledge to advance in their technologies and national growth, without asking for any 'transfer of technology' as being canvassed by African nations, most especially Nigeria.
"It suffices to say that the rhetoric approach to the study of Mathematics and other Sciences is responsible for the slow pace of technological development and economic advancement in Nigeria.
"Science is discovery and discovery is the foundation of technology which involves risk-taking.
"Instead of encouraging our Scientists and Technologists to take risks by way of experiment, invention and reinvention where there are mistakes, we prefer to transfer technology.
"Transfer of technology is more expensive than developing indigenous technology which can lead to the advancement and true independence of the country, if given a chance.
"I make bold to say that unless we change the idea of transferring technology, we will always find things difficult and expensive to run.”
Speaking earlier, the Acting Vice Chancellor of the University, Prof Asomwan Sonnie Adagbonyin, noted that “as a science of numbers, mathematics is often considered as a nightmare among students, though often misunderstood.”
Prof Adagbonyin who was represented at the lecture by the University's Acting Deputy Vice Chancellor, Administration, Prof. Theophilus Agweda, on behalf of Management, expressed his appreciation to the staff and students for the success of the 2nd Semester Examinations of the 2022/2023 academic session.
Also, for the commencement of the 2023/2024 academic session as he emphasised the commitment of the University's Management to an uninterrupted academic calendar and the prompt payment of salaries and pensions.
He also expressed Management’s gratitude to staff for the understanding and cooperation that it has continued to receive from staff and students.
Highpoint of the 109th AAU Inaugural lecture was the decoration of the lecturer with the esteemed academic medal by the Acting Vice Chancellor.
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