The Department of Mathematical Sciences at the University marked this year’s International Day of Mathematics (IDM) with a vibrant and impactful series of events held from March 12th to 15th, 2025. The celebration, observed globally on March 14th commonly known as “Pi Day” embraced the 2025 theme: “Mathematics, Art, and Creativity.”
This global observance, recognised by UNESCO, aims to promote the importance of mathematics and its role in fostering innovation and creativity. The Department’s celebration sought to connect mathematics to diverse fields while engaging young minds in the Tarkwa-Nsuaem and Sekondi-Takoradi Municipalities.
Led by the Head of Department, Associate Professor Christiana Nyarko, and supported by faculty of the Department, the celebration featured a three-day outreach programme targeted at Junior and Senior High Schools.
The outreach reached nine (9) junior high schools including: Dadwen Schools Complex, Goldfields School Complex, Nsuta Roman Catholic School, Nsuta Methodist School, Peace Royal International School, Tamso M.A. School, Methodist Junior High School, UMaT Basic School, and Terbrebe M.A. School.
Second cycle participants were drawn from Tarkwa Senior High School, Methodist Senior High School, Sekondi College, Ideal College, Ahantaman Girls' Senior High School, St. Mary’s Boys School, and Fijai Senior High School, all in the Western region.
The outreach activities included interactive sessions, creative mathematical brain teasers, and discussions that highlighted the connection between mathematics and artistic expression. These activities sparked enthusiasm among the students, many of whom expressed renewed interest in pursuing mathematics-related courses in higher education.
Notably, the strong presence of female faculty members served as a source of inspiration, especially for young girls. Several school heads expressed their desire for continued engagement with UMaT to sustain the momentum and motivation the program generated.
On March 15th, the celebrations concluded with a friendly inter-level football match among students of the department, reinforcing the importance of community, teamwork, and student engagement in academic and extracurricular activities.
Adding further visibility to the celebration, alumni of the Department participated in special radio sessions on the University’s Dynamite FM on March 10th and 14th. They shared real-world experiences of how mathematics has played a pivotal role in their careers, providing current students with relatable role models and career insights.