Ghana (University of Ghana) School of Physical and Mathematical Sciences celebrates Day of Scientific Renaissance of Africa
The School of Physical and Mathematical Sciences has celebrated the 2023 Day of Scientific Renaissance of Africa with a seminar on the theme, “Mathematics in Africa: Critical Resource for Development.”
In his introductory remarks, Professor Mark Sandow Yidana, Dean of the School of Physical and Mathematical Sciences, praised the Planning Committee for organising the seminar. He emphasised that the subjects taught in the School span various fields, and that the Day of Scientific Renaissance is significant to the School as it provides an opportunity to showcase their research and its impact on students and the wider world.
Professor Mark Sandow Yidana, Dean, School of Physical and Mathematical Sciences
During the seminar, Dr. Joseph Ansong, a Senior Lecturer in the Department of Mathematics, discussed the evolution of Mathematics and explored various definitions provided by scholars and dictionaries. Dr. Ansong explained, “Mathematics has played a dominant role in the development of civilizations and culture, with each culture developing its own mathematical concepts to meet its needs. Mathematics originated from ancient Egypt, where commerce necessitated a system of weights and measures.”
Dr. Joseph Ansong, Senior Lecturer, Department of Mathematics
Dr. Ansong also highlighted the application of Mathematics in industrial and geophysical contexts. He stated, “Mathematics is useful across the entire product cycle, contributing to better products, improved quality, and shortened design cycles. Mathematical and quantitative reasoning, supported by computational and mathematical models, have permeated the real world around us. The strength and well-being of a nation are determined, to a substantial degree, by its technological development and economic organisation.”
Addressing the challenges faced in the study of Mathematics, Dr. Joseph Ansong suggested ways to mitigate them. He mentioned the high cost of tuition fees, the lack of funding, and students’ aversion to computation or programming courses. To alleviate these issues, he recommended creating an enabling environment for industries to thrive and fund research and development.
A cross-section of participants at the Celebration
He also proposed reserving a portion of public contracts for research and development institutions. Additionally, he emphasised the importance of monitoring the rising number of students entering higher education as well as ensuring a corresponding increase in infrastructure and qualified faculty to maintain the quality of education.
The seminar was attended by the heads of various departments within the School, students, and members of the University community.