Punjab: For many students, learning mathematics is essential, yet it is also challenging and often perceived as boring; it is a subject where one is either at the very top or at the very bottom. For many, it instills a fear of numbers. Moreover, it has been observed that older family members—who themselves had bitter experiences while learning the subject—often, at some point, inadvertently instill this fear (phobia) in the younger generation. The common perception is that mathematics is abstract and difficult, leading students to view it as a monotonous and dry subject. According to the Ministry of Education’s ‘PARAKH National Survey’ report, published last year, there exists a significant gap in the learning levels of Indian students. As far as mathematics is concerned, only 55 percent of third-grade students are able to arrange numbers up to 99 in ascending or descending order. Approximately 63 percent of ninth-grade students struggle to recognize basic numerical patterns and concepts such as fractions and integers. We know that there is no human endeavor—including invention, discovery, and innovation—that does not rely on mathematics. The economic prosperity of any society depends on this very subject. The beauty of mathematics lies in its patterns, logic, and the language of problem-solving—elements that require true comprehension.
Understanding mathematics involves knowing, internalizing, grasping, and interpreting the meaning and implications of mathematical knowledge. Therefore, the key to learning mathematics is to maintain an open mindset and practice regularly. Like many other skills, if one does not actively engage with it—whether by solving problems, applying concepts, reviewing key ideas, or practicing—it becomes easy to forget it or lose one’s proficiency in it over time. However, while there is no escaping mathematics in school until the 10th grade, it remains a subject that fosters logical thinking and contributes to the development of a learner’s capabilities. Mathematics teaches patience and the ability to solve problems step-by-step. These skills are also required in other fields of learning, such as music, art, and writing. It cannot be denied that studying subjects like accounting, economics, finance, technology, and research necessitates a knowledge and understanding of mathematical concepts. The significance of this subject is immense—not merely as an academic discipline, but also as a life skill that prepares learners to move beyond rote memorization toward deep conceptual understanding, critical thinking, and creativity in problem-solving. From the primary grades onward, parents and teachers should encourage students to learn the subject with understanding, rather than focusing solely on grades. Students should be encouraged to embrace mathematics as an essential life skill—and not merely as an academic requirement—for this skill demands understanding, clarity, concentration, consistency, dedication, and, most importantly, a love for the subject.
