Associate Professor at the University of Ghana Mathematics Department, Chisara Peace Ngozi Ogbogbo, has urged parents to actively support and encourage their children, especially girls, to pursue Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) education.
Speaking on the Campus Exclusive show, Professor Ogbogbo said parents play a critical role in shaping children’s perceptions about mathematics and science from an early age.
According to her, many parents unintentionally fuel fear and anxiety surrounding mathematics by projecting their own negative experiences with the subject onto their children.
“Parents themselves have to understand and be well informed about mathematics and science. This way they are able to encourage their children to do math and science because a lot of parents are in a hurry to divert their children because they fuel the phobia,” she explained.
She stressed that parents who continuously tell children that mathematics is difficult may discourage them from developing confidence in STEM subjects.
Professor Ogbogbo noted that when parents provide emotional support, encouragement and the necessary learning resources, children become more motivated to excel in mathematics and science.
“If parents tell the child that they can do this and that it is very important, and they provide all the support the child needs, then we are making progress from the home front,” she said.
She also expressed concern about persistent stereotypes that discourage girls from pursuing careers in engineering, mathematics and science.
She further asserted that some parents still make girls believe STEM-related professions are unsuitable for women and instead encourage them to pursue traditionally accepted career paths.
Professor Ogbogbo emphasized that such perceptions continue to limit female participation in STEM despite the growing importance of science and technology to national development.
“But we are saying parents should encourage girls. They should encourage their children along the STEM area,” she added.
She therefore called on parents to change their understanding and perspective about mathematics and science and become active supporters of STEM education both at home and in society.
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Story by Erica Odeenyin Odoom | univers.ug.edu.gh
