Why do students fear math? | National Mathematics Day

National Mathematics Day, observed annually on December 22nd, is a significant occasion dedicated to celebrating the birth anniversary of India's mathematical genius, Srinivasa Ramanujan. This day, officially declared by the Government of India in 2012, serves as a powerful reminder of India's rich mathematical heritage and aims to inspire future generations to engage with and excel in mathematics, often perceived as a daunting subject.

The background to this observance lies in the profound impact of Srinivasa Ramanujan's work. Born on December 22, 1887, in Erode, Tamil Nadu, Ramanujan's life was a testament to extraordinary innate talent combined with relentless self-study. Despite having almost no formal training in advanced mathematics, he made groundbreaking contributions to mathematical analysis, number theory, infinite series, and continued fractions. His work, often presented as conjectures without formal proofs initially, astonished the mathematical world and continues to be studied and applied in various fields today. The declaration of his birthday as National Mathematics Day was a fitting tribute to his unparalleled legacy and a recognition of the importance of mathematical literacy and innovation for national progress.

Key stakeholders involved in promoting the spirit of National Mathematics Day include the Government of India, particularly the Ministry of Education and the Ministry of Science & Technology, which spearhead initiatives and policies. Educational institutions, from primary schools to universities (including NCERT and UGC), play a crucial role in organizing events, workshops, and competitions to foster mathematical interest. Mathematical societies and research organizations, like the Indian Mathematical Society, actively contribute to research and public engagement. Ultimately, students and educators are the direct beneficiaries and implementers, as they are encouraged to explore mathematics beyond textbooks, develop critical thinking, and overcome the common fear of the subject, as highlighted by the article's premise that mathematical ability is shaped by experience, teaching, and mindset, not just inborn talent.

This observance matters immensely for India's future. In an increasingly technology-driven world, a strong foundation in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) is indispensable for innovation, economic growth, and national security. National Mathematics Day helps in cultivating a scientific temper among citizens, a fundamental duty enshrined in Article 51A(h) of the Indian Constitution, which mandates developing 'scientific temper, humanism and the spirit of inquiry and reform'. By celebrating a national icon like Ramanujan, India instills national pride and encourages young minds to pursue careers in scientific research and development. It also serves as a platform to address 'math phobia' by promoting engaging and interactive teaching methodologies, aligning with the goals of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, which emphasizes foundational literacy and numeracy, critical thinking, and a multidisciplinary approach to learning.

Historically, India has been a cradle of mathematical innovation, with ancient mathematicians like Aryabhata, Brahmagupta, and Bhaskara II making seminal contributions to concepts like zero, decimal system, trigonometry, and algebra. Ramanujan's work stands in this grand tradition, linking ancient wisdom with modern mathematical thought. His collaboration with British mathematician G.H. Hardy at Cambridge University further exemplifies the global nature of scientific inquiry and the potential for international cooperation in advancing knowledge.

Looking ahead, the future implications of National Mathematics Day are significant. It underscores India's commitment to strengthening its educational framework, particularly in mathematics, to produce a skilled workforce capable of meeting the demands of the 21st century. The emphasis on developing mathematical aptitude from an early age, as envisioned by NEP 2020, will be crucial. This includes curriculum reforms, teacher training, and leveraging technology to make learning more accessible and engaging. Furthermore, fostering a culture of research and innovation, inspired by Ramanujan's relentless pursuit of knowledge, will enable India to maintain its competitive edge in emerging fields like Artificial Intelligence, data science, and quantum computing, all of which are deeply rooted in advanced mathematics. The continued celebration of this day will ensure that Ramanujan's legacy not only remains alive but also serves as a beacon for scientific excellence and intellectual curiosity across the nation.