International Journal of Engineering, Science and Mathematics
Vol. 7 Issue 9, September 2018,
ISSN: 2320-0294 Impact Factor: 6.765
Journal Homepage: http://www.ijesm.co.in, Email: ijesmj@gmail.com
Double-Blind Peer Reviewed Refereed Open Access International Journal - Included in the International Serial Directories Indexed &
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36
International Journal of Engineering, Science and Mathematics
http://www.ijesm.co.in, Email: ijesmj@gmail.com
THE PLACE OF MATHEMATICS EDUCATION IN ADDRESSING
ENTREPRENEURSHIP DEVELOPMENT AND JOB CREATION IN NIGERIA
Edeoga Benjamin Odo
Department of Science Education, Faculty of Education, Ebonyi State University.
Abaki1iki
Udeh Ikemefuna James
Department of Electrical and Electronic Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, Enugu State
University of Science and Technology (ESUT), Enugu-Nigeria
Okpube, Nnaemekea Michael
Depariment of Science Education, Faculty of Education, Ebonyi State University,
Aabki1iki
Abstract
Entrepreneurship and job creation development has become a great concern to
mathematics educators in view of the unprecedented increase in unemployment in Nigeria.
The basic problem in mathematics education is how to make students apply mathematical
knowledge and skills in future outside the classroom context. Mathematics education
provides a solid foundation for everyday life in individual by developing the ability of
precision, logical, abstract thinking and ability to be accurate in solving real life problems.
Entrepreneurship and job creation encourages self employment or self-reliance which
depends highly on the proper acquisition of knowledge and skills in mathematics
education. Entrepreneurs have the passion among other traits that enhance their business
because the business creates jobs for them and they believe that their business success is
their personal success. The paper discusses on the meaning of entrepreneurship,
entrepreneurship development in Nigeria, mathematics education and entrepreneurship
development, and factors that enhance entrepreneurship and job creation in Nigeria. If the
individual has mathematics skills and knowledge, he can take decision on his own,
consultant and could be able to solve problems hence he can stay on his own as an
entrepreneur. He can be an employee of mathematics educators.
Keywords: Mathematics education, Entrepreneurship development, Job creation, Nigeria
Introduction
Mathematics is an activity oriented subject to which practical activities that involve
individual participation is very important. Chado and Zakiriyya (2013) observed that
without mathematics, there will be no Science, without Science there will be no technology
and without technology there will be no modern society. Kurumeh and Imoke (2006)
described mathematics as the queen of science and technology. According to Odiogo
(2009), mathematics sharpens the mind and gives individual the ability to react in the right
direction in times of need. Mathematics gives more power to individual thinking.
Mathematics was in use even before the advent of formal education in taking daily stock of
trading and farming activities in the society. Okafor (2012) stated that Nigeria
Transformation Agenda cannot be sustained without mathematics because mathematics has
economic value, since no business can thrive effectively without mathematics.
Mathematics remains a subject that equips learners with knowledge and practical skills