By Justus Adetomiwa, Ado-Ekiti
Professor of Industrial Mathematics at Ekiti State University (EKSU), Ado Ekiti, Prof. Michael Oke, has called on universities across Nigeria to make industrial mathematics a core component of their academic programmes to equip graduates with the skills required to address the nation’s real-life and industrial challenges.
Delivering the 107th inaugural lecture of the university titled, “Seeking the Best Way in Solving Real-Life Problems Using Mathematics Concepts: The Beauty of Optimal Techniques,” Oke said mathematics should no longer be regarded as a purely theoretical discipline but as a practical tool for driving innovation, economic growth and sustainable national development.
The professor explained that industrial mathematics bridges the gap between classroom learning and practical applications in engineering, medicine, business, manufacturing, technology and public administration, adding that greater exposure to the discipline would equip students with analytical and problem-solving skills needed in today’s rapidly evolving world.
He also proposed the establishment of a two-year postgraduate programme in Mathematics for Industry, noting that the initiative would prepare graduates for mathematics-related careers while enhancing their capacity to tackle industrial problems through research, innovation and effective communication.
Oke further urged the Federal Government and relevant stakeholders to invest more in mathematics education by providing modern laboratories, advanced software and scholarships for exceptionally gifted students.
According to him, encouraging more young Nigerians to study mathematics would strengthen the country’s scientific and technological capacity and position it for sustainable development.