In ceremonies held at the Department of Education headquarters on Point Finger Road, the Minister read a proclamation declaring that "Mathematics Education Month is to be observed in schools and communities in recognising the increased importance of mathematics in our lives.'' "Mathematical literacy is essential for citizens to function effectively in society,'' he stated, "and our technologically complex society demands increased understanding of mathematics.'' Ms Angela Samuels, president of the Bermuda Council of Teachers of Mathematics, said, "The world is becoming more technologically advanced, and there is a greater need for advanced math skills.'' "This (Mathematics Month) is happening the world over, and as an affiliate of the National Council of Mathematics Teachers of the United States, the Bermuda Council is committed to doing this every year.'' Ms Samuels also said that this is not in response to any deficiency in the math skills of Bermuda students, rather it is to promote the idea that mathematics is easier than generally perceived.

"Generally the state of math skills in Bermuda compares very favourably to the rest of the world,'' she said, "But the concern is that they are not what we would like them to be. Our objective is to make math more relevant to our students. If we can do this, math can be seen as fun from an early age. Math can empower anyone.'' In response to this, there will be some form of activity happening in nearly every school. Monday evening the Berkeley Institute held their Math Family Fun Nite, in which part of the fun was to provide activities for parents and children to stress the importance of a strong math background.

Throughout this month there will be a competition involving time and money management at the Harrington Sound School, a family night at the Warwick Academy, as well as at Dellwood and Paget Primary Schools.

Other schools will have in-house competitions.

Ms Marva Allen, head of Mathematics at Berkeley Institute also said: "There is a need for mathematics reform. More analytical thinkers are going to be required in the work force, and we are trying to develop self-confidence.

Mathematics education is a process, not a product.'' Mathematics Education Month will culminate with a display and Fun Day at the Phoenix Centre on April 30.

At the centre, the public will be able to see displays, career advice will be provided, with competitions and games along with a presentation by Bermuda's first actuary, Mrs. Gina Blakeney Smith.

The BCMT will also be presenting a television show, "The Mathematics Connection'' on local television.

"This is not a crisis situation,'' Ms Samuels said, "It's a response to a need.'' And to that end, the BCMT will be endeavouring to provide leadership in the field of mathematics, and create an interest in the subject while promoting learning.