Fear of Mathematics is a global 'disease' — Prof Ale

Mathematics as a subject is feared globally, not
just in Nigeria says Professor Sam Ale, a former
Director-General of the National Mathematical
Centre.

Mathematics as a subject is feared globally, not
just in Nigeria says Professor Sam Ale, a former
Director-General of the National Mathematical
Centre.
Ale said this in a recent interview with Daily
Trust in Abuja.
According to him, the fear of the subject is not a
Nigerian problem because students all over the
world fear it..
"All over the world, there is apathy towards
mathematics because people think the subject is
difficult," Ale said.
"That's a problem faced all over the globe, not
only in Nigeria."
Immediately you mention that you are a
mathematician, people will refer to you as a
terror.
"Majority of people don't like the subject and are
scared of it."

The Professor noted that only with advancement
in Mathematics can the world progress.
"The advancement in the world is together. I can
make bold to say that the world cannot advance
without advancement in mathematics," he added.
"Yes, it is a disease of many students and people
generally; but truly, we need it to advance."
He called on the government to pay special
attention to rural education, noting that, "until
educational facilities are improved upon,
mathematics as a subject will not thrive."