The Department of Mathematics at Haramaya University College of Natural and Computational Sciences (CNCS) conducted a national conference under the theme of “The Advancement of Mathematics: Current Trends & Future Prospects” from May 27- 28, 2022 at the University’s Resource Centre.

Dr. Getachew Abebe, Dean of College of Natural and Computational Sciences of Haramaya University, said in his welcoming speech that the Conference is co-organized with International Science Program University (UPPSAL), Ethiopian Mathematics Professionals Association (EMPA) and Department of Mathematics, AAU.

Dr. Getachew said that the Conference deals with topics clustered in four sub- themes: Applied Mathematics, Pure Mathematics, Undergraduate and Postgraduate Mathematics in Ethiopia as well as challenges and opportunities and mathematics education.

On the opening ceremony, Haramaya University Vice President for Academic Affairs, Prof. Mengistu Urge, said the University is currently producing teachers in various mathematics degree programs and research to enhance problem-solving research in the field.

He also said that the necessary preparations have been completed to start the 3rd degree program in the next academic year.

Jimma University Mathematics Professor and Researcher, Professor Gemechis File, said at the same time, mathematics education in the country has been taught for a long time but is not moving in the right direction.

The Professor cited fears among students and the community, lack of contact with the world of mathematics curriculum, gaps in teacher preparation and teaching, and the lack of a higher-level research tool at universities.

To this end, there are fears among students and the community about the curriculum and the lack of contact with the world of work in the design of the curriculum.

He cited gaps in the preparation of teachers and the teaching and learning process as well as lack of advanced research equipment at higher institutions as a reason for the lack of academic growth.

He said the expansion of higher education institutions since 2016 and the expansion of postgraduate education in the sector are making a small difference in education.

He said mathematics education is currently being implemented in various universities and is making progress in human resource development.

He also said that research publications in the field of mathematics have begun to gain international attention.

According to Professor Gemechis, while there is some improvement in mathematics, there is still a long way to go in research and development related to the problems of the community and the industry.

Dr. Addisalem Abathun, member of Addis Ababa University School of Mathematics and the Ethiopian Association of Mathematicians, said the Association is working to bring about significant change in mathematics, both at home and abroad.

She said Ministry of Education is currently working on the preparation of textbooks in editing and other fields.

During the closing remark Dr. Yisak Yusuf, Vice President for Community Engagement & Enterprise Development Office, noted that the aim of the conference is achieved for sure of shared experience, knowledge transfer, ignited motivation, see the current trend and future prospect of mathematics.

Around 150 participants including the Central Committee Members of Ethiopian Mathematics Professionals Association, professionals in mathematics and related fields from 32 Universities in the country attended the Conference.

By: – Shemsedin Mohammed

Photo:- Tewodros Lishan

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