Maths4Life Foundation to Boost Students’ Proficiency in STEM, Critical Thinking Skills

Uchechukwu Nnaike

Maths4Life Foundation has restated its commitment to delivering meaningful and lasting impact on Nigerian students by helping them learn and apply mathematical concepts, theories, and formulas and develop critical thinking, logical reasoning, and problem-solving skills.

Through numerous competitions, the foundation aims to leverage the transformative power of mathematics to improve education and empower individuals at all levels.

Speaking at a press conference to announce the 2025 National Mathematics Tournament finals, scheduled for Saturday, March 1, 2025, at Eko Hotels, Lagos, the President of Maths4Life Foundation, Omoniyi Osuntuyi, said that the foundation’s commitment to mathematics education is deeply rooted in its vision to identify and nurture students with exceptional mathematical abilities and foster a sense of healthy competition, teamwork, and sportsmanship among students.

According to him, the 2025 National Mathematics Tournament (NMT) finals will see contestants from eight schools across seven states in Nigeria compete for the opportunity to emerge as the winner and the chance to partake in the N6 million prize money for the best three overall winners.

In addition to the cash prizes, he pointed out that winners will receive trophies, medals, certificates and other consolation prizes for participants.

Schools that will compete in the final tournament are Epe Girls High School, Lagos; Penny International School, Lagos; University of Benin, Demonstration Secondary School, Edo; Bosdem College, Ogun; Loyola Jesuit College, Abuja; Graceland International School, Rivers; Little Scholars School, Kaduna; and Austica Memorial College, Anambra.  

Osuntuyi said NMT provides opportunities for students from underprivileged backgrounds and socio-economic backgrounds to participate in national-level competitions, exposing them to quality education and resources and promoting equal opportunity for all.

“The tournament offers resources, support, and mentorship to participating students, helping to bridge the gap between their current skills and future aspirations,” he said.

Mopelola Ajetunmobi, Admin Officer, Maths4Life Foundation, said NMT provides students with opportunities to learn about various STEM careers, inspiring them to explore these fields.

Ajetunmobi added that students at various competitions have the opportunity to interact with STEM professionals, mentors, and role models, gaining insights into the practical applications of mathematics.

According to Ajetunmobi, the foundation’s long-term objective is to create a world in which education, particularly in mathematics, is thoroughly understood, valued, and celebrated.

She said that mathematics permeates every aspect of life, so the foundation advocates for initiatives demonstrating its application from childhood through old age.

“Soon, we plan to produce reality television shows, films, and events that promote the integration of mathematics into our everyday lives, regardless of one’s educational level or professional background.”

“We will continue to establish platforms that recognise and support individuals and institutions committed to enhancing education, enabling them to serve as role models and inspire a broader audience to appreciate,” she said.

Ajetunmobi said that since 2022, Maths4Life has organised the World Mathematics Tournament twice, online PDT every quarter, with participants worldwide.

She noted that these competitions help students learn and apply mathematical concepts, theories, and formulas, develop critical thinking, logical reasoning, and problem-solving skills, and prepare students for careers in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM).