Over 500 teachers have participated in a training programme organised by the African Institute for Mathematical Sciences (AIMS) Ghana and the Centre for Education in Mathematics and Computing at the University of Waterloo.
The 2026 edition of the ‘Helping Teachers Teach Mathematics Conference’ held at the University of Ghana, was under the theme: “Bridging the Gap: Strengthening Africa’s Mathematics Classrooms Through Resilience, Innovation and Hope.”
The 4th edition of the conference created an engaging platform for educators, researchers, STEM advocates and mathematics enthusiasts to exchange ideas, explore innovative teaching approaches and strengthen mathematics education across Africa.
Centre President of AIMS Ghana Dr. Prince K. Osei highlighted the urgent need to improve learning outcomes in mathematics education across the continent. He reaffirmed AIMS Ghana’s commitment to supporting teachers and empowering educators to create meaningful and lasting impact in classrooms through innovative and learner-centred teaching practices.
A major highlight of the conference was the address delivered by Mr. Ken Abitey of the National STEM Resource Unit of the Ghana Education Service (GES), on behalf of Mrs. Olivia Serwaa Opare, Director of STEM Education at GES. In his remarks, he emphasized the importance of resilience, collaboration and innovation in transforming mathematics classrooms across Africa. He encouraged educators to adopt practical, inclusive and technology-driven teaching methods that make mathematics more engaging and accessible for learners.
“Mathematics continues to be one of the most powerful foundations for national development. It drives science, technology, innovation, critical thinking, and problem-solving. Yet, in many parts of our continent, gaps still exist in access to quality teaching and learning resources, learner confidence, teacher support, and engagement in mathematics education”.
The conference also featured an array of renowned educators and experts from Ghana and around the world including; Prof. Elsie Kaufmann, Dr. Bernard Oduoku Bainson and Prof. Joseph Ansong, alongside sessions facilitated by international speakers including Prof. Judith Ann Koeller, Dr. David Stern, Carly Zinuik, and Pof. Jen Nelson among others.
Mathematics Prof. Bruce Bayly took participants through geometry using practical and hands-on methods such as drawing triangles and shaping long balloons thereby enabling participants to explored creative ways of explaining geometric concepts in interactive and memorable ways.
The conference also included practical Sessions such as “Mɛtumi Ayɛ Maths: Building Confidence in Every Classroom”, highlighting the importance of building learner confidence and fostering inclusive mathematics classrooms where every student feels capable of succeeding.
Many participants said they have been inspired and equipped with fresh ideas and practical strategies to strengthen mathematics teaching and learning across Africa.
