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By: Emmanuel Austin Baah
The Head of the Department of Mathematics and Statistics at Cape Coast Technical University, Prof. David Yaro, has called on the government to intensify investment in Mathematics and Statistics education, describing the disciplines as the backbone of Artificial Intelligence, coding and Ghana’s digital transformation agenda.
According to Prof. Yaro, Ghana’s ambition to become a technology-driven economy can only be achieved if greater attention is paid to strengthening students’ foundation in Mathematics and Statistics at all levels of education.
Speaking on the growing importance of digital skills and technological innovation, the respected academic noted that while government continues to invest heavily in coding and digitalisation programmes, insufficient focus is being placed on the core subjects that power those technologies.
“Mathematics and Statistics provide the foundation for Artificial Intelligence. So, as the government is investing hugely in the area of coding and digitalisation, there is the need to ensure that the foundation where Mathematics and Statistics are essential must be the ultimate focus,” Prof. Yaro emphasised.
He explained that Artificial Intelligence, machine learning, data science, robotics and software engineering all rely on mathematical and statistical principles, making the subjects indispensable in the modern technological era.
Prof. Yaro warned that Ghana risks falling behind in the global digital economy if students continue to struggle with Mathematics, particularly at the basic and secondary school levels.
He attributed the challenge partly to inadequate teaching and learning resources, limited practical exposure and the fear many students develop towards Mathematics from an early age.
The CCTU Head of Department therefore called for urgent government intervention through increased investment in modern teaching facilities, digital learning platforms, mathematics laboratories and continuous professional development for teachers.
He further advocated practical and technology-driven teaching methods that would help students appreciate the relevance of Mathematics and Statistics in everyday life and future careers.
“Mathematics is no longer just a classroom subject. It is the language of technology, innovation, research and national development,” he added.
Prof. Yaro also appealed for more scholarships and incentives for brilliant but needy students pursuing Mathematics, Statistics and other STEM-related programmes, especially those from disadvantaged communities.
He stressed that countries that prioritise Mathematics and Statistics education are better positioned to drive innovation, strengthen research, attract technological investment and compete globally.
The academic therefore urged policymakers, educational stakeholders and development partners to treat Mathematics and Statistics as strategic national priorities capable of shaping Ghana’s future in the rapidly evolving digital age.