Africa Mathematics Project honours 40 pupils in FCT school

By Veronica Dariya

No fewer than 40 pupils and students of Berries World Montessori School, Bwari, Abuja, on Thursday received Awards of Excellence in Mathematics from the Africa Mathematics Project, a non-governmental organisation.

Speaking with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on the sidelines of the event, the organisation’s representative, Mr Promise Barry, said the initiative was aimed at promoting interest in mathematics among learners.

Barry said the award recipients were selected based on outstanding performance in mathematics during the previous term’s examinations.

“This award was strictly based on merit from the previous term examinations conducted in the school.

“With this, we believe that, going forward, others who have less interest in the subject will want to embrace it and do better,” he said.

He explained that the organisation was committed to eliminating the fear of mathematics among learners, noting that studies had shown that many students perceived the subject as difficult.

According to him, increasing awareness and interest in mathematics among learners remains a priority for the organisation, especially in preparing them for future global opportunities.

Barry added that the Africa Mathematics Project regularly organised mathematics competitions across schools in the country to encourage participation and improve performance in the subject.

He said the competitions were conducted in stages and offered cash prizes, consolation rewards and scholarship opportunities for participants who advanced to the national level.

The representative urged parents to continue supporting and encouraging their children, particularly in subjects they considered challenging, while recognising their efforts and progress.

In her remarks, the Proprietor of the school, Ms Roseline Yuwe, described the award presentation as proof that excellence was achieved through deliberate effort and commitment.

She said the collaboration with the Africa Mathematics Project was designed to strengthen learners’ interest in mathematics and promote a culture of academic excellence.

“Since the establishment of this school, I have intentionally and consistently promoted Mathematics, presenting it to my learners as a subject that is simple, enjoyable and learnable by anyone at any time.

“We have worked hard to remove fear and replace it with confidence and curiosity.

“The improvement in our learners’ performance in Mathematics has been remarkable; what you witnessed today was a reflection of their hard work, dedication and outstanding scores,” she said.

Yuwe said the achievement demonstrated that excellence was attainable when learners were provided with the right mindset, support and conducive learning environment.

She added that the school’s goal was to nurture a growth mindset among students and encourage hard work, consistency, diligence and persistence.

One of the award recipients, Miss Bernice Bawah, a JSS 2 student, described the recognition as exciting and motivating.

Bawah said although she previously faced challenges in mathematics, consistent tutorials and support from her teachers helped her improve significantly.

She expressed appreciation to the organisers and school management for the recognition and encouragement.

NAN reports that the award recipients ranged from outstanding performers in kindergarten classes to students in the junior secondary school category.

Parents, guardians, teachers and other members of the school community attended the event. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

DVK/AMM

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Edited by Abiemwense Moru