AAU’s 116th Inaugural Lecture: University Don Advocates Enhanced Funding For Nigeria’s National Mathematical Center
By Editor
A Professor of Mathematics, (Numerical Analysis/ Computational Mathematics) at the Ambrose Alli University, Ekpoma, Edo State, Nigeria, Prof. Cletus Enorelenfor Abhulimen has called on the Federal Government to, as a matter of urgency, improve on its funding of the nation’s National Mathematical Centre(NMC) to empower it to facilitate its short-term courses for mathematics teachers, lecturers, and researchers.
Prof. Cletus Enorelenfor Abhulimen who made this call while delivering the 116th edition of Ambrose Alli University’s bi-monthly Inaugural lecture titled “Everything is Mathematics: Numerical Tools, My Language said “It is evident that a nation’s growth is intricately linked to it’s technological advancement, which in turn is deeply rooted in Mathematics.
“As we navigate the age of computers and artificial intelligence, the demand for highly skilled mathematicians becomes even more crucial. Mathematics has been shown as the bedrock of all scientific and technological advancement, and thus, fostering a robust mathematical foundation is essential for any nation aspiring to excel.
Beyond this, Prof. Cletus Abhulimen also recommends that a scholarship and support for aspiring mathematicians be instituted to encourage talented individuals to pursue higher education in mathematics. “By removing financial barriers we can inspire a new generation to embrace this vital discipline.
“To keep pace with the evolving demands of Mathematics in real-world applications, institutions should regularly organize workshops and conferences focused on mathematical tools and software. These in-service training programs will ensure that both educators and professionals remain at the forefront of mathematical advancement and can effectively address complex problems.
To Prof. Cletus Abhulimen, “Building a strong Mathematical foundation from a young age is crucial. Schools and organizations should regularly host mathematics competitions and quizzes for primary and secondary school students, offering attractive prizes to winners. These events will not only stimulate interest in mathematics but also foster a culture of excellence and enthusiasm for the subject.
Declaring the 116th inaugural lecture open, the Acting Vice Chancellor, Ambrose Alli University Ekpoma, Prof. Asomwan Sunnie Adagbonyin said “Embracing the concept that ‘everything is mathematics’ underscores the pervasive influence of numerical tools across various disciplines and everyday life. In essence, numerical tools serve as a common language that transcends disciplinary boundaries, enabling interdisciplinary collaboration and innovation. Embracing mathematics as “my language” reflects its universal applicability and essential role in advancing knowledge and solving complex challenges across diverse domains
Prof. Asomwan Sunnie Adagbonyin who was represented by the University’s Deputy Vice-Chancellor, administration, Prof Theophilus Agweda said “As the Staff Appraisal and Promotions exercises for the 2021/2022, 2022/2023, and 2023/2024 sessions go on, be rest assured of the expeditious action of Management in fast-tracking the processing of all promotions of deserving staff. In approving the inclusion of the current 2023/2024 appraisal year to the previous sessions, I am mindful of the fact that if we can fast-track the delivery of inaugural lectures by our University’s Professors, we can also do the same for promotions. I seek the cooperation of all in this regard while hoping that these promotions can be released before the end of the year.
The high point of the 116th Inaugural lecture was the decoration of the inaugural lecturer with the distinguished lecturer’s medal.