Gafari Lukumon
Where am I from?
Iseyin, Oyo State; Nigeria
Describe an experience that helped you discover or cultivate your interest in the mathematical sciences.
It was during my high school years at Iseyin District Grammar School, before I joined the School of Science, Okeho, that my interest in mathematics was truly sparked. At that time, due to a shortage of teachers, Mr. Salaam, a newly recruited Agricultural Science teacher, was assigned to teach us mathematics. He introduced us to operations on algebraic equations, particularly word problems such as “I think of a number, the number is twice…” I found these problems fascinating and engaging.
I had already learned from my primary school days how to represent an arbitrary number with \(x\), and I was familiar with terms like sum, difference, and product as addition, subtraction, and multiplication, respectively. Concepts such as “twice as” were also familiar to me, thanks to the foundational teaching of Mr. Sulaiman Salaam and Mr. Fasasi Sayed Balogun at Hope Rising Nursery and Primary School, founded by Mrs. Simbiat Abiola.
In class, whenever Mr. Salaam presented an example before solving it, I would quickly calculate the answer and share it with the entire class. This led my classmates to call my name repeatedly for subsequent questions—”Gafari…,” and I didn’t disappoint. These moments not only boosted my confidence but also deepened my love for mathematics.
This experience ignited my passion for topics like simultaneous equations and cultivated my appreciation for mathematics as a subject. It ultimately inspired me to pursue it further and study it at the university level.
What are your most proud accomplishments in your career in the mathematical sciences?
One of my proudest accomplishments in the mathematical sciences is teaching mathematics pro-bono in my mother tongue, Yoruba, and creating over 500 video resources across various levels for the benefit of students. I am deeply thankful to God for the opportunity to make this impact and take immense pride in what this modest effort has become with His help.
Each time I watch my teaching videos and reflect on the positive feedback from those who have benefited, I feel a profound sense of fulfillment. Seeing students excel in mathematics as a result of these resources reinforces the value of this initiative and motivates me to continue this work.
What are your most proud accomplishments in your personal life?
One of my proudest accomplishments in my personal life is teaching and sharing knowledge to positively impact others. I feel deeply fulfilled knowing that people have benefited from the modest efforts God has enabled me to make in their lives.
Another significant achievement is earning a PhD in Mathematics and another in Cognitive Science. These milestones hold special meaning for me, as they represent not only personal growth but also the realization of my parents’ dreams—dreams they could not achieve themselves due to financial limitations but worked tirelessly to provide for me. Being able to honor their sacrifices and fulfill their aspirations is a source of immense pride and gratitude for me.
Words of wisdom/inspiration:
Humility is a virtue that paves the way for growth and wisdom. Cultivate the fear of God, show deep respect for those who have shaped us—especially our parents and teachers—and honor the pursuit of knowledge. Avoid envy; instead, nurture gratitude by reflecting on the blessings we have and remembering those who are less fortunate. Looking up to others may inspire us, but true contentment comes from appreciating what we already have.
Giving back to society is another vital principle. Share what you know, teach others, and use whatever resources or skills you possess to make a positive impact. In doing so, you not only uplift others but also find deeper fulfillment in your journey.