First Lady Sajidha Mohamed has said that students should be encouraged to understand that mathematics is not merely a subject learnt in classrooms and from textbooks, but an essential discipline that is closely connected to the practical aspects of everyday life.
She made these remarks while delivering the keynote address as guest of honour at the launch of the book "Mathematical Thinking in the Maldives", written by Dr Aishath Shehenaz Adam, Vice Chancellor of the Maldives National University (MNU).
The First Lady noted that it was especially fitting that the book was launched after the occasion of the Maldives' National Writers' Day, describing it as a significant contribution to the nation's educational and cultural development. She said the publication represents an important piece of scholarship examining the relationship between Maldivian culture, mathematics, and the national education curriculum.
“Through work such as this, knowledge is preserved, traditions are documented, and new pathways for learning are created. Producing research of this nature requires not only academic expertise, but also perseverance, intellectual curiosity, and a deep appreciation of our people's history and traditions. I commend the Maldives National University for its continued commitment to conducting research that benefits the nation and contributes to its development.” she said.
In her address, the First Lady highlighted the important role universities play in advancing knowledge, fostering innovation, and developing practical solutions that benefit society. She said institutions such as the Maldives National University help shape the country's future and described the book as an excellent example of research that connects the nation's past with its future.
Speaking about the importance of mathematics, she stressed that it is far more than simply a school subject. Rather, it is a vital skill that underpins sound decision-making, creative thinking, and problem-solving. She also observed that mathematics forms the foundation of disciplines such as science, technology, and finance.
The First Lady acknowledged that, as in many other countries, many students in the Maldives view mathematics as a difficult subject. She said this perception must change.
“More importantly, mathematics is the foundation of many fields that will shape the future, including science, technology and finance, in an increasingly complex world. As technology continues to transform our lives, strong mathematical skills will become even more important for future generations. Strengthening mathematics education is therefore not simply an educational objective; it is an investment in the Maldives' future, its prosperity, and its continued progress.” she added.
The First Lady thanked the Maldives National University for prioritising research that supports the country's development. She also praised Dr Shehenaz for the considerable effort invested in writing the book and for her contribution to preserving and passing on Maldivian history and traditions to future generations.
Book on mathematical thinking in the Maldives launched
The book exploring the history and role of mathematics in Maldivian society was launched by First Lady Sajidha Mohamed at a ceremony held at the Maldives National University (MNU).
Titled "Mathematical Thinking in the Maldives", the book examines how mathematics has shaped everyday life in the Maldives, from navigation and fishing to agriculture, boatbuilding and other traditional occupations.
Dr Shehenaz said the book is based on extensive research, including visits to islands across the country and interviews with historians, language experts and other researchers. She said the study also explores how different civilisations influenced the development of mathematics in the Maldives.
According to Dr Shehenaz, connecting mathematics with familiar, real-life experiences can make learning the subject more meaningful. She added that the research laid the foundation for developing an ethnomathematics curriculum.
The book, Mathematical Thinking in the Maldives: Ethnomathematics, Cultural Heritage and Curriculum Integration, is the first academic publication in the Maldives to examine the links between mathematics, culture and education, with the aim of promoting greater appreciation of mathematics and its role in the country's heritage.