"Mathematics is needed for cognitive skills because it hones logic," he said here on Tuesday.
The Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education is planning to implement mathematics education starting from the kindergarten level as one of its priority programs.
Alhumami informed that mathematics education will be provided by considering the psychological condition and development of children and in accordance with their age.
"Do not assume that introducing mathematics from an early age means introducing high-level formulas, no. We can package it (for children)," he said.
He added that teachers involved in the effort must also have the pedagogical skills to adjust math lessons for children based on their age.
He expressed the hope that the effort would improve the quality of Indonesian human resources in the future, especially in the fields of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM), whose number is currently considered inadequate in Indonesia.
"It will have a long-term impact. Science and math from an early age will contribute to their future," he said.
President Prabowo Subianto is paying great attention to improving the quality of science and technology, which can be achieved through the development of mathematical learning, especially in grades 1 through 4 of elementary school.
Therefore, efforts such as improving learning methods, training for mathematics teachers, and introducing mathematics from the kindergarten level are among the President's main priorities.
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Translator: Sean Filo, Raka Adji
Editor: Rahmad Nasution
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