Ugochukwu Onumadu, a mathematician, statistician and educator, has been honoured with the Eriksson College of Education Chair’s Award of Excellence in Academic Assignment and Advising in the Department of Educational Specialties, Eriksson College of Education, Austin Peay State University (APSU), Clarksville, Tennessee, USA.

    The award is in recognition of Onumadu’s exceptional contributions to mathematics education, innovative pedagogy and transformative mentorship.

    With over 15 years of teaching experience, the adjunct lecturer and a doctoral scholar in APSU has redefined mathematical instruction, ensuring that students clearly grasp complex concepts of the numeric subject. His servant and transformational leadership approach has also earned him an impressive 95 per cent positive student evaluation rating, setting a benchmark for excellence in teaching and mentoring.

  The awardee’s impact extends beyond the classroom, as he has on different occasions spearheaded global mathematics workshops, collaborating with the STAR Scholars Network to advance mathematics education across the globe. 

  As the author of the highly acclaimed textbook Maths Language for Beginners, he has played a pivotal role in making mathematical concepts more accessible to diverse learners.

  Expressing profound gratitude, Onumadu said: “I am deeply honoured and grateful for this prestigious international recognition. I remain committed to shaping the future of education through impactful teaching and research. It was a delightful surprise, which makes it even more meaningful and has inspired me to continue to make mathematics more accessible and engaging to learners. As a mathematician and statistician, this recognition affirms my dedication to innovative teaching, student mentorship, and global mathematics education. It reaffirms my belief that mathematics education should be inclusive, engaging, and transformational. My passion lies in empowering students to see mathematics as a tool for innovation and problem-solving, not as a subject to be feared.”

    The award was conferred on five outstanding educators for the 2024/2025 academic year.

  Onumadu had his first degree in Statistics from Imo State University (IMSU), Owerri; an MBA in marketing from Ladoke Akintola University of Technology, Ogbomosho; a master’s in Statistics from University of Lagos (UNILAG) and a master’s in mathematics from the Technical University of Munich, Germany. His expertise in big data analytics, predictive modeling, and educational leadership has continued to influence the evolving landscape of mathematics education. His philanthropic efforts, including the donation of educational resources to underserved communities, underscore his commitment to equitable learning.