In a bid to debunk misconceptions surrounding Mathematics and STEM education, the 8th Cohort of the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at the African Institute for Mathematical Sciences (AIMS) Ghana recently embarked on an initiative to engage students in two schools within the Ledzokuku-Krowor Municipality.

Madam Beauty Beatrice Kwawu, Program Manager of the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at AIMS Ghana, highlighted the program’s mission to identify and empower talented young individuals with a purpose-driven commitment to improving lives through education. Despite the common belief that Mathematics and STEM courses are challenging due to their abstract nature, the Scholars aimed to dispel this misconception and inspire students to embrace these subjects and pursue careers in the field.

Their outreach activities commenced at the Martey Tsuru Presby Junior High School from February 12th to 13th, concluding with a visit to O’Reilly Senior High School on February 15th. The engagement proved mutually beneficial, garnering appreciation from teachers and students alike.

The headmaster of Martey Tsuru J.H.S., Mr. Gershom Osei Akoto, expressed gratitude for AIMS Ghana’s initiative, acknowledging the valuable impact it had on students’ interest in Mathematics and Science. Students, including Yasmine Animah from O’Reilly SHS, shared their enthusiasm for the sessions, revealing a newfound appreciation for the practical applications of Mathematics in various aspects of their lives.

The Scholars, comprising 33 individuals from 10 African countries, including Malawi, Uganda, DRC, Ghana, Nigeria, Tanzania, Kenya, Cameroon, Zambia, and Algeria, utilized the project to share personal experiences of overcoming the belief that Mathematics is difficult. Through various teaching methods including games, they emphasized the importance of cultivating a strong interest in learning Mathematics and showcased its wide-ranging applications in STEM-related fields and everyday activities.

Dorcas Olanike Agboola, a representative from the Scholars’ Council, expressed satisfaction with the positive response from students, as they expressed their intent to apply the strategies learned during the project to excel in their academic pursuits.