Ghana/Interview "Beyond the Numbers: A Journey into the Future of Mathematics Education"Michael Achumboro Akpabil

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From the halls of academia to the farthest reaches of Northern Ghana, expert mathematician, author and environmental scientist reveals a transformative TiME Project and globally ranked CalMathics book that promises to revolutionize how students engage with mathematics.

African Newsroom: Welcome to African Newsroom. Today, we have the privilege of speaking with Michael Achumboro Akpabil, a young mathematician and environmental scientist making waves in education. Michael, could you tell us more about who you are and what you do?
Michael Achumboro Akpabil: Certainly. Just to add to what you have stated, I earned my professional and academic degree from the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Ghana. I am from Fumbisi in the Upper East Region and am currently the executive director of CalMathics publication, the co-founder and president of The Green Generation (TGG), the project coordinator for the Technology-integrated Mathematics Education (TiME) and an author.
African Newsroom: That's fascinating. Now, let's talk about your remarkable projects. The Technology Integrated Mathematics Education (TiME) project has been gaining attention for its impact on schools in Northern Ghana. Can you share what motivated you to start this project and how it has evolved since its inception?Click here to see Advertisement

Michael Achumboro Akpabil: The TiME project was born out of my book, CalMathics: Calculator Mathematics, which gained global recognition for its innovative approach to teaching mathematics using technology. This achievement brought sponsors from China and Ghana, that are willing to help promote educational activities in underprivileged communities in Ghana. Seeing the need and poor performances in Mathematics in Northern Senior High, Technical and Vocational Schools, I resolved to contribute my quota to solving this problem by starting the TiME project to provide students with access to technological tools like scientific calculators at a non-profit rate. Over time, the project has expanded to include free tutorials, staff training, and laptop incentives for top-performing students. Above all, a free donation of the $ 12 CalMathics book to students in beneficiary schools.

African Newsroom: It's inspiring to see the impact of the TiME project. Could you share any anecdotes or success stories from beneficiary schools that illustrate the project's effectiveness?

Michael Achumboro Akpabil: Absolutely. I recently visited one of the beneficiary schools in Wa and was thrilled to see the enthusiasm among students and teachers for using scientific calculators in their mathematics lessons. Teachers reported significant improvements in students' understanding and performance in mathematics since the implementation of the TiME project. One student even expressed his excitement about solving complex equations using the calculator for the first time, which was truly heartwarming to witness.

African Newsroom: Collaboration and partnerships are crucial for the success of any initiative. Could you tell us about any collaborations or partnerships that have been instrumental in advancing the TiME project?

Michael Achumboro Akpabil: Absolutely. The success of the TiME project would not have been possible without the generous support of our sponsors from Casio and Osalo manufacturing companies from China, who share our commitment to improving education in underserved communities. Additionally, partnerships with local schools, educational stakeholders, and government agencies have been instrumental in expanding the reach of the project and ensuring its sustainability.

African Newsroom: I'm sure people would love to hear more about the CalMathics book that inspired the TiME project. Can you tell us about the book and its impact on mathematics education globally?

Michael Achumboro Akpabil: CalMathics: Calculator Mathematics is a book I authored to teach High School, College and University students how to use the scientific calculator to solve complex maths problems even if you aren’t very good at Maths. CalMathics teaches virtually all topics and how the scientific calculator can be used to solve them. CalMathics is ranked globally as one of the top three books that incorporate technology in education by Amazon. This book is currently distributed across countries including Ghana. Nigeria, Liberia, The Gambia, Sierra Leon, and as far as Australia. 

African Newsroom:  How can someone get a copy of this special book? 
Michael Achumboro Akpabil: Whether you want to reach us, register your school for the TiME project or get the CalMathics book, contact us through the following official channels
Send an email to info@calmathics.com or Whatsapp +233556391176
Visit our official website
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African Newsroom: Before we conclude, is there anything else you would like to share with our audience or any call to action you would like to make?

Michael Achumboro Akpabil: You see, gone are the days where learning was centralized on only the ability to memorize terms and formulas and the use of learning tools like calculators is seen as unintelligence and perversion of appropriate education. Belief it or leave it, technology has come to stay, and if you are not inclined to technology, then you are sidelined in life. The earlier we realise and accept this as a reality into our educational systems as Africans, the better for us. So, I would like to encourage everyone to join us in our mission to transform mathematics education and empower students to reach their full potential. Whether through volunteering, donations, or simply spreading the word, each of us has a role to play in shaping the future of education. Together, we can make a difference and create a brighter future for generations to come. Thank you.

African Newsroom: Thank you, Michael, for sharing your insights and inspiring work with us. We wish you continued success in your endeavors.

Michael Achumboro Akpabil: Thank you for having me. It's been a pleasure.