Issuu

The Importance of Collaboration in the Workplace

prayer FUN FACTS Reigniting STUDY TIPS

THE CRITICAL IMPACT OF HIGH STUDENT FEES ON EDUCATION

MATH I

CAREER SPOTLIGHTS

STRESS MANAGEMENT

trends to watch in higher education

Bridging the Gap in

Editorial

Dear Readers,

Welcome to the September issue of our magazine, where we delve into the theme of "Bridging the Gap in Education." As we embark on a new academic year filled with possibilities and challenges, this edition aims to provide you with insightful articles and practical tools to navigate the evolving landscape of learning and professional development.

In this issue, we explore effective stress management techniques that empower students and professionals to maintain balance and well-being amid the demands of modern education and the workplace. Discover proven study tips designed to enhance learning efficiency and information retention, helping you achieve your academic goals with confidence.

Understanding the significance of teamwork, we delve into the importance of collaboration in the workplace, highlighting strategies to foster productive and harmonious working relationships that drive success and innovation. Stay informed with our coverage of emerging trends in higher education, offering a glimpse into the future of learning and how institutions are adapting to meet the needs of a changing world.

We also revisit timeless values by discussing the movement to reignite prayer in schools, examining how spiritual practices can contribute to a supportive and inclusive educational environment. For those contemplating their future paths, our career spotlights shed light on diverse professions, providing inspiration and guidance to help you make informed decisions about your career journey.

Lastly, we celebrate the beauty and utility of mathematics in our "I Love Math" feature, showcasing how math shapes our daily lives and fuels advancements across various fields.

We hope this collection of articles inspires and equips you to bridge gaps in your own educational and professional pursuits. As always, we encourage your feedback and look forward to engaging with you on these important topics.

Here's to a season of learning, growth, and meaningful connections!

Happy Reading, Tracey Nosakhare Chief-in-Editor

AS September rolls in, a fresh academic year begins, bringing with it new opportunities and challenges. This month’s edition of our magazine is dedicated to "Bridging the Gap in Education," a theme that resonates deeply as we navigate the ever-evolving landscape of learning and work. Our goal is to provide insights and tools that will help students, educators, and professionals alike to bridge the divides that often hinder growth, understanding, and success.

In today’s fast-paced environment, stress has become a common companion for many students and professionals. But while it is almost unavoidable, how we manage stress can make all the diﬀerence. In this issue, we delve into eﬀective stress management techniques that not only help maintain mental well-being but also improve academic performance and workplace productivity. We believe that learning how to manage stress is a crucial skill, one that bridges the gap between potential and achievement.

Studying eﬀectively is more than just clocking in hours at the desk. It’s about adopting the right strategies to ensure that the time spent studying is productive and leads to meaningful learning. Our feature on study tips provides practical advice on how to retain information, prepare for exams, and maintain a balanced academic life. By mastering these techniques, students can bridge the gap between eﬀort and results, setting themselves up for success in their academic journey.

In the professional world, the ability to collaborate eﬀectively is key to success. Whether you’re working on a team project or navigating a complex organizational structure, collaboration allows for the sharing of ideas, the pooling of resources, and the achievement of common goals. This issue highlights the importance of collaboration in the workplace, providing insights into how it fosters innovation, improves problem-solving, and enhances productivity. By emphasizing collaboration, we bridge the gap between individual capabilities and collective success.

Studying eﬀectively is more than just clocking in hours at the desk.

Higher education is undergoing significant transformations, with new trends shaping how we learn, teach, and prepare for the future. From the rise of online learning platforms to the increasing emphasis on interdisciplinary studies, our contributors explore the latest trends that are redefining higher education. Staying informed about these changes is essential for students, educators, and institutions to bridge the gap between traditional education models and the needs of the modern world.

In an age of rapid change and technological advancement, the return to timeless traditions can oﬀer a sense of stability and purpose. Our discussion on reigniting prayer in schools explores how this practice can provide a moral foundation for students, fostering a sense of community, reflection, and respect. By reintroducing prayer, we aim to bridge the gap between the fast pace of modern life and the spiritual grounding that can help guide young minds.

paths, we help bridge the gap between education and employment, guiding students and professionals toward fulfilling and successful careers.

Finally, we celebrate the subject that often sparks both love and fear—math. In our "I Love Math" feature, we explore how math is not just a subject but a critical skill that underpins many aspects of life and work. From its practical applications to its beauty in logic and problem-solving, math is a bridge that connects theory with real-world challenges. By fostering a love for math, we aim to bridge the gap between abstract concepts and their tangible benefits.

As we embark on this new academic year, let’s focus on bridging the gaps that can hold us back from reaching our full potential. Whether it’s managing stress, adopting eﬀective study habits, embracing collaboration, or staying ahead of educational trends, each step we take brings us closer to a more fulfilling and successful future. Together, we can bridge these gaps and create a stronger, more connected community of learners and professionals.

Welcome to September, and welcome to a year of growth, discovery, and achievement.

REIGNITING PRAYER

in SCHOOLS

Tracey Nosakhare

In a world that’s increasingly fast-paced and complex, the need for a strong moral foundation has never been greater. Schools have long been considered not only places of learning but also environments where character is molded, values are instilled, and young minds are prepared for the future. As society faces numerous challenges, from the pressures of social media to the stresses of academic competition, there is a growing movement to bring back a practice that was once a cornerstone of school life: prayer.

Prayer in schools, while a topic of debate, has historically played a significant role in fostering a sense of community, reflection, and moral grounding among students. It provides a moment of pause in an otherwise hectic day—a chance for students to center themselves, express gratitude, and find peace amidst the noise. Beyond its spiritual significance, prayer can be a powerful tool for promoting unity and respect among diverse student populations, encouraging them to reflect on shared values and the importance of compassion, empathy, and kindness.

The idea of reintroducing prayer into schools is not just about returning to tradition; it's about meeting the deep-seated needs of today’s students. As mental health concerns rise and students navigate increasingly stressful environments, prayer oﬀers a moment of calm and introspection. It allows students to step back, consider their actions, and align themselves with a higher purpose, whether that be through spiritual belief or personal reflection.

Schools that have embraced the practice of daily or weekly prayer report that it creates a sense of community and belonging. It serves as a reminder that education is not just about academic achievement but about nurturing the whole person—mind, body, and spirit. Through prayer, students learn the importance of humility, gratitude, and respect for others, laying the groundwork for a more compassionate and understanding society.

PRAYER AS A UNIFYING FORCE

In diverse educational settings, prayer can be a unifying force, bridging gaps between different cultural and religious backgrounds. When approached with inclusivity and respect, school prayer can encourage students to appreciate and celebrate the diversity of their peers while focusing on common values. This shared experience can foster a deeper sense of community and mutual respect, helping to reduce instances of bullying and discrimination.

Implementing Prayer in Modern Schools

Bringing prayer back into schools requires thoughtful implementation, with respect for the diverse beliefs of all students. It’s essential that schools create an environment where prayer is seen as an opportunity for reflection and growth, rather than as a religious imposition. This can be achieved through voluntary participation, moments of silence, or the inclusion of non-denominational prayers that focus on universal values such as peace, kindness, and gratitude.

Incorporating prayer into the school day doesn’t have to be a rigid practice. It can be woven into assemblies, morning announcements, or even as a quiet moment before classes begin.

As we consider the role of prayer in modern education, it’s important to recognize its potential to enhance the school experience. By reintroducing prayer, we can help students navigate the complexities of today’s world with a stronger sense of purpose and community. Prayer in schools is not just about reviving an old tradition; it’s about equipping students with the tools they need to thrive—spiritually, emotionally, and morally.

ACQUELI N E GEDD ES Trends to watch in Higher Education

Can a Focus on Innovation and Entrepreneurship Accelerate the Growth of Developing Economies?

There is substantial evidence linking innovation and entrepreneurship to economic growth. According to Skålsvik et al. (2016), “Innovation is a construct associated with wealth, prosperity, and employment in society (Drucker, 2007), and in the innovation research literature, innovation is perceived as an important driver of economic growth, particularly in industrialized economies” (Tidd et al., 2005, p. 537).

Given the current state of the developing world and the advent of new technologies, how can these nations drive innovation and entrepreneurship through affordable and appropriate models of higher education? How can they attract and motivate students to utilize their creativity to innovate and start new businesses that can signiﬁcantly grow these economies?

“Education reform requires looking at the root cause of some of its current problems. ”

W-El-Azar, 2022

Several organizations have been conducting research on new approaches to education, particularly in the use of artiﬁcial intelligence, electronic assessments, and technology-integrated curriculums. International organizations such as the World Economic Forum and UNESCO have conducted extensive research in this area. A paper shared at the World Economic Forum in 2022 stated:

"Education reform requires looking at the root cause of some of its current problems. We need to look at what is being taught (curriculum), how (pedagogy), when and where (technology and the real world), and whom we are teaching (access and inclusion). Those institutions that are ready to address these fundamental issues will succeed in truly transforming higher education" (El-Azar, 2022).

hat if universities had the opportunity to start again? Given the almost unlimited access to information now available, the original advantage universities had of being the primary source of signiﬁcant knowledge no longer exists. El-Azar suggests that replacing lectures with active learning is an emerging trend, driven by the fact that digital information is freely available. She points out that it is unreasonable to pay thousands of dollars to listen to someone provide information that can be found elsewhere at a much lower cost (El-Azar, 2022). The question of “why university?” needs to be reconsidered. Are universities in the developing world addressing the fundamental needs of their regions, or are they simply issuing degrees for people to secure “better jobs”? The value derived from the signiﬁcant investment in universities becomes more questionable as costs continue to rise. According to El-Azar (2022), the need for universities to demonstrate effective learning outcomes is one of the four trends that will shape the future of higher education—and rightly so. The education of the future will likely focus on delivering more practical results at lower costs.

Another key trend identiﬁed by El-Azar (2022) is the use of formative assessments instead of high-stakes exams. Shane Sutherland, founder and CEO of PebblePad, suggested during the BETT 2022 Future of Assessment eAA Panel Session that assessment should begin with outcomes that are negotiated and created jointly with students so that they are clearly understood (eAssessment Association, 2022). Sutherland emphasized that assessment methods should address the skills and attitudes of the learner and should be multidimensional, drawing from different methods, thus providing a more equitable and fair assessment. He anticipates that future assessment methods will develop self-regulated, reﬂective, and creative learners and lead to feedback that is both iterative and ipsative.

AI TREND

Philip LeFeuvre, Head of Operations and Strategy at the Northern Council for Further Education in the United Kingdom, expects that the future of assessments will involve more formative and fewer summative assessments (eAssessment Association, 2022). He also expects that instead of focusing solely on technical skills and knowledge, the curriculum will broaden to include critical thinking, problem-solving, and resilience. LeFeuvre highlights the importance of considering prior learning as part of the assessment, understanding the context of the learner, delivering perceived value to the learner, and helping learners understand where they are in their journey and what

nother critical trend to watch is the use of AI in education. According to Dr. Richard Nelson, in his presentation "Opportunities for AI in Assessment" at the seminar Beyond Multiple Choice Day 2 on November 8, 2023, “AI can personalize learning by providing tailored assessments and feedback to students based on their strengths and weaknesses. This can help students focus on areas where they need more assistance and practice to improve their overall performance” (eAssessment Association, 2023). Artiﬁcial intelligence, therefore, offers an opportunity to provide personalized learning experiences. This is especially beneﬁcial for students who have not achieved the grades necessary to enter higher education and have felt excluded from traditional schools of higher learning, where they are often required to conform to a standard program.

into learning progress, identifying areas for improvement and increasing accessibility for students with disabilities or language barriers. As new methods of delivery, assessment, and feedback emerge, AI has the potential to transform the future of education by widening participation and contributing to richer outcomes driven by data insights and co-created, tailored goals.

Given the ever-increasing cost of higher education in the region, universities must seek innovative solutions that deliver more value at lower costs. Students, parents, ﬁnancial backers, supporters, and governments of developing nations will all demand it. Governments look to local universities not only to supply their labor force but also to stimulate economic growth. Research indicates that a greater focus on innovation and entrepreneurship can drive economic growth (Qiu et al., 2023).

Universities in the region will face increasing pressure to perform as government funding becomes contingent upon accountability in struggling economies (“UWI to Get Triple UTech’s Funding,” 2021). Demonstrating tangible contributions to economic growth will likely push universities to reduce costs and re-examine their approach to higher education.

Jacqueline Geddes Author & Business Woman England, UK

Start children oﬀ on the way they should go, and even when they are old they will not turn from it.

Prov. 22:6

StressMANAGEMENT

Healthy Tips

Get Organized: Your Roadmap to Success

The chaos of school assignments, projects, and extracurricular activities can be overwhelming if not managed properly. Start by getting organized. Use planners, digital apps, or even sticky notes to keep track of deadlines and commitments. Break down big tasks into smaller, manageable steps. By organizing your workload, you create a clear roadmap, which reduces the feeling of being overwhelmed and gives you a sense of control.

Prioritize and Manage Your Time Wisely

Not all tasks are created equal. Learn to prioritize what’s most important and focus on those tasks first. The Eisenhower Matrix is a helpful tool, dividing tasks into four categories: urgent and important, important but not urgent, urgent but not important, and neither urgent nor important. This strategy helps you focus on what really matters, preventing you from getting bogged down by less critical tasks. Remember, eﬀective time management isn’t just about doing more; it’s about doing what matters most

Embrace the Power of Breaks

It might seem counterintuitive, but taking regular breaks is crucial for maintaining productivity and reducing stress. The Pomodoro Technique— working for 25 minutes followed by a 5-minute break—can keep you focused and refreshed. During breaks, do something diﬀerent: stretch, take a short walk, or practice deep breathing. These activities can help clear your mind and prevent burnout.

Develop a Healthy Lifestyle

Your physical health significantly impacts your ability to manage stress. Regular exercise, a balanced diet, and adequate sleep are all essential. Exercise, in particular, releases endorphins, which are natural stress relievers. Even a short walk can make a big diﬀerence in how you feel. Ensure you're getting enough sleep each night, as rest is crucial for cognitive function, mood regulation, and overall well-being.

Connect with Others: Don’t Go It Alone

Social support is one of the most eﬀective buﬀers against stress. Don’t hesitate to reach out to friends, family, or even teachers when you’re feeling overwhelmed. Sometimes, just talking about what’s bothering you can provide relief. Study groups can also be beneficial, as they allow you to share the load, gain new perspectives, and provide mutual encouragement.

Learn to Say No

It’s easy to overcommit yourself when you want to do it all. But knowing your limits is key to managing stress. Learn to say no to additional responsibilities when you’re already feeling stretched. Saying no isn’t a sign of weakness; it’s a recognition of your boundaries and a commitment to your well-being.

Set Realistic Goals

Setting goals gives you direction and motivation, but it’s important to make them realistic. Unrealistic goals can set you up for failure and increase stress. Break your goals into smaller, achievable steps, and celebrate your progress along the way. This approach not only keeps you motivated but also reduces the pressure to be perfect.

Seek Professional Help if Needed

Sometimes, stress can become overwhelming and difficult to manage on your own. If you find that stress is affecting your daily life, don’t hesitate to seek help from a counselor or mental health professional. They can provide you with additional strategies and support to cope with stress effectively.

Stress is a natural part of the school experience, but it doesn’t have to be a negative force. By adopting these stress management techniques, you can take control of your stress and use it to fuel your success. Remember, it’s not about avoiding stress entirely, but learning how to manage it so that it propels you forward rather than holding you back.

As you embark on this new school year, keep these strategies in mind. Stay organized, take care of your body and mind, and don’t be afraid to ask for help when you need it. With these tools, you’ll not only survive the pressures of school—you’ll thrive. keep winning!

STUDYING TIPS MASTERING THE ART OF STUDYING

s.Active Learning Over Passive Reading

tudying is an essential part of academic success, but it's not just about the amount of time you spend with your books. The key to effective studying lies in using the right strategies to enhance understanding, retention, and recall of information. Whether you're preparing for exams, tackling a new subject, or simply trying to improve your learning habits, these study tips will help you make the most of your efforts.

One of the most effective ways to retain information is through active learning. This involves engaging with the material rather than just passively reading or listening. Active learning can include:

Summarizing: After reading a section, pause and summarize the main points in your own words.

Questioning: Ask yourself questions about the material and try to answer them without looking at your notes.

Teaching: Explain the concepts to someone else. Teaching is a powerful way to reinforce your own understanding.

SPACED REPETITION

Spaced repetition is a proven method for improving memory retention. Instead of cramming all your study into one session, space it out over several days or weeks. Review the material periodically, with increasing intervals between each review session. This technique leverages the psychological spacing effect, which suggests that we retain information better when it is studied a few times over a longer period.

Mind Mapping

USE OF MNEMONICS

Mnemonics are memory aids that help you recall larger pieces of information through associations with words, phrases, or images. For example, to remember the order of the planets in our solar system, many people use the phrase, "My Very Educated Mother

Just Served Us Noodles" (Mercury, Venus, Earth, Mars, Jupiter, Saturn, Uranus, Neptune). Mnemonics are especially useful for memorizing lists, formulas, or steps in a process.

Mind mapping is a visual study tool that helps you organize information in a way that mirrors the brain’s natural process of association. Start with a central concept and draw branches to related ideas, terms, or concepts. This method helps to structure your thoughts, see connections between different pieces of information, and improve your ability to recall them later.

The Pomodoro Technique

The Pomodoro Technique is a time management method that involves breaking study sessions into 25-minute intervals, called “Pomodoros,” followed by a 5-minute break. After four Pomodoros, take a longer break of 15-30 minutes. This technique helps maintain focus, prevents burnout, and keeps your mind fresh throughout your study sessions.

PRACTICE TESTING

Self-testing is one of the most effective ways to prepare for an exam. Use practice tests, flashcards, or quiz yourself on key concepts. This not only helps reinforce what you've learned but also identifies areas where you need more review. Regular testing helps build confidence and improve recall under exam conditions.

Healthy Study Environment

Your environment plays a crucial role in how well you can concentrate and retain information. Ensure your study space is quiet, well-lit, and free from distractions. Keep your study materials organized, and have everything you need within reach before you begin. A clutter-free and focused environment can signiﬁcantly enhance your productivity.

Healthy Lifestyle Habits

Your brain needs the right fuel and rest to function at its best. Ensure you get enough sleep, as rest is critical for memory consolidation. Regular exercise improves blood ﬂow to the brain, and a balanced diet provides the necessary nutrients for cognitive function. Staying hydrated and taking breaks during study sessions also helps keep your mind sharp.

Regular Review and Reﬂection

Regularly reviewing what you’ve studied is key to long-term retention. Spend a few minutes each day going over what you learned, even if it’s just a quick glance at your notes. Reﬂecting on what you've studied and how well you’ve understood it will help reinforce your knowledge and identify areas that need more attention.

Effective studying is not just about working harder; it’s about working smarter. By incorporating these strategies into your routine, you can improve your ability to retain and recall information, leading to better academic performance and a deeper understanding of the material.

Remember, the key is consistency and active engagement with the content.

NOW GO AND SCORE!

Exploring Diverse Paths to Success Career Spotlights

Choosing a career is one of the most significant decisions you’ll make in your life. With countless paths available, the journey to finding your ideal profession can be both exciting and daunting. This month, we’re shining a spotlight on diverse career paths, oﬀering insights into what it takes to succeed in various fields and how you can embark on these journeys. Whether you’re a student exploring your options, a professional considering a career change, or someone simply curious about diﬀerent industries, this guide is designed to inspire and inform.

The World of Healthcare: Becoming a Nurse

Nursing is a career that combines compassion with clinical expertise. Nurses are the backbone of the healthcare system, providing critical care, comfort, and support to patients. The path to becoming a nurse typically involves earning a degree in nursing—an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) or a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)—followed by passing the NCLEX-RN exam to become a licensed registered nurse.

Nursing oﬀers a wide range of specializations, from pediatrics to oncology, and even roles in administration and education. The demand for skilled nurses continues to grow, making it a stable and rewarding career choice. If you’re passionate about helping others and thrive in fast-paced environments, nursing could be the perfect path for you.

Engineering: Building the Future

Engineering is a field for problem-solvers and innovators who want to design and build the future. Whether it’s developing sustainable energy solutions, creating advanced robotics, or designing cutting-edge infrastructure, engineers are at the forefront of technological advancement.

To pursue a career in engineering, you’ll typically need a Bachelor’s degree in your chosen specialty— such as civil, mechanical, electrical, or chemical engineering. Many engineers also obtain professional certifications or licenses, such as the Professional Engineer (PE) license, to enhance their credentials and career prospects.

Engineering oﬀers a broad range of opportunities, from working in large corporations to launching your own startup. If you have a passion for math, science, and innovation, engineering could be the ideal path to explore.

The Arts: Becoming a Graphic Designer

Graphic design is where creativity meets communication. Graphic designers use visual elements— like typography, color, and imagery—to create compelling designs that convey messages eﬀectively. From branding and advertising to digital media and web design, graphic designers play a crucial role in shaping the visual landscape of our world.

To become a graphic designer, a Bachelor’s degree in graphic design or a related field is often required, though some enter the field with an Associate degree or through self-study and building a strong portfolio. Proficiency in design software like Adobe Creative Suite is essential, as is staying updated on the latest design trends and technologies.

Graphic design oﬀers a flexible career path with opportunities to work in-house at companies, in design agencies, or as a freelance designer. If you’re a creative thinker with an eye for detail and a love for visual storytelling, graphic design could be your calling.

Business and Entrepreneurship: Launching Your Own Business

For those with an entrepreneurial spirit, starting your own business can be an incredibly rewarding career path. Entrepreneurs identify market needs, develop products or services to meet those needs, and take on the risk of launching and growing a business.

While there’s no single path to becoming an entrepreneur, gaining experience in business management, finance, and marketing can be invaluable. Many entrepreneurs start by earning a degree in business administration or a related field, but others may start their businesses without formal education, relying on experience, passion, and perseverance.

Entrepreneurship is a path filled with challenges, but it also oﬀers the freedom to pursue your passions and the potential for significant rewards. If you’re driven by innovation, willing to take risks, and ready to lead, entrepreneurship could be the career for you.

Education:

Becoming a Teacher

Teaching is a career dedicated to shaping the minds of the future. Teachers play a vital role in educating and inspiring students, whether in elementary schools, high schools, or higher education institutions.

To become a teacher, you’ll generally need a Bachelor’s degree in education or in the subject you wish to teach, followed by state certification or licensure. Many teachers also pursue a Master’s degree in education to specialize in areas like curriculum development or educational leadership.

Teaching is a deeply rewarding career that allows you to make a lasting impact on students’ lives. If you’re passionate about education, enjoy working with young people, and want to contribute to society in a meaningful way, teaching could be the perfect path for you.

Finance: Becoming a Financial Analyst

Financial analysts are the experts who help businesses and individuals make informed decisions about investments and financial planning. They analyze financial data, market trends, and economic conditions to provide insights that guide investment strategies.

A career as a financial analyst typically requires a Bachelor’s degree in finance, economics, or a related field. Many financial analysts also pursue certifications such as the Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) designation to enhance their credentials and career prospects.

With opportunities in investment banking, corporate finance, and portfolio management, a career in finance oﬀers both challenge and reward. If you have a strong analytical mind, an interest in markets, and a talent for numbers, becoming a financial analyst could be your ideal career path.

THE IMPORTANCE OF COLLABORATION IN THE WORKPLACE

MONIQUE WASHINGTON

THE IMPORTANCE OF COLLABORATION IN THE WORKPLACE MONIQUE WASHINGTON

Collaboration in the workplace is critical to the success of a company, as it leverages the strengths and mitigates the weaknesses of an organization.

paul and Silas were a team, as were Delilah and Samson. However, deception and manipulation played a role in the latter duo, with Samson’s denial enabling Delilah to trick him. Being a team player doesn't mean overlooking flaws; it means identifying and addressing them, and teaching others how to correct them.

Comparing peers or colleagues against each other breeds contempt and dislike. This can lead to constant errors and tasks being completed with little to no regard for company policy or quality of work.

s tatistics show that employees who are open to collaborative working are not only likely to focus on tasks for longer—64% longer than their solo peers, to be exact—but are also more engaged, display less fatigue, and generally deliver more successful outcomes (Taylor, 2024).

s ome employees may be hesitant to use technology to accomplish tasks or meet virtually. However, using instant messaging and video conferencing tools is valuable and convenient for both employees and employers. Why the change? Only 7% of professionals communicate over the phone, with the majority of communication occurring via email. Some examples of tools used in the workplace include Microsoft Teams, Slack, Zoom, and various project management platforms. I encourage you to use what best fits your budget and personal needs.

hen employers promote team building and collaboration, it enhances creativity and problem-solving due to the multicultural and diverse perspectives and combined expertise involved. Surveys have shown that 41% of collaborative work increases client satisfaction. Additionally, 70% of employees believe collaborative projects will increase productivity and save time (2024).

Finally, companies will see higher profits when employees collaborate effectively rather than working against each other. Having a clear vision with an efficient and courteous team encourages consumers to return to a company for their products and services.

I MATH

Math is not just a subject but a critical skill that underpins many aspects of life and work. From its practical applications to its beauty in logic and problem-solving, math is a bridge that connects theory with real-world challenges. By fostering a love for math, we aim to bridge the gap between abstract concepts and their tangible benefits

Now, let us do an equation!

Problem:

You and three friends go to a pizza party. Each of you wants to have at least 3 slices of pizza, but there’s also a dessert tray with cupcakes. The number of cupcakes is twice the total number of pizza slices you all eat.

If there are 48 cupcakes and each pizza has 8 slices, how many pizzas do you need to order to make sure everyone gets their slices and the number of cupcakes is correct?

Equation:

Let p be the number of pizzas you order.

Each pizza has 8 slices, so the total number of pizza slices is 8p.

The number of cupcakes is twice the total number of pizza slices, so: 48=2(8p)

Solve for p to find out how many pizzas to order.

Solution:

Start by simplifying the equation: 48=16p

Divide both sides by 16: p= 1648 p=3

So, you need to order 3 pizzas.

Each person gets 6 slices (which is enough), and the number of cupcakes matches up perfectly!

T HE CRITIC A L IMPACT O F High Student Fees on Education

Education has long been heralded as the great equalizer, offering individuals the opportunity to improve their lives and contribute meaningfully to society. However, the rising cost of tuition and fees has increasingly placed this opportunity out of reach for many, creating a barrier to access and exacerbating inequality. The critical effect of high student fees on education is a topic that deserves urgent attention, as it not only affects individual students but also has far-reaching consequences for society as a whole.

One of the most immediate and tangible effects of high student fees is the ﬁnancial strain it places on students and their families. As tuition rates continue to rise, more students are forced to take out substantial loans to ﬁnance their education. According to recent studies, the average student debt in many countries has reached unprecedented levels, with graduates often entering the workforce burdened by debt that can take decades to repay.

This financial burden has a significant impact on students' lives, influencing their career choices, delaying major life milestones such as buying a home or starting a family, and even affecting their mental health. The stress of debt can lead to anxiety and depression, further hindering students' ability to succeed academically and professionally.

High student fees disproportionately affect students from low-income backgrounds, perpetuating a cycle of inequality. While wealthier students may have the resources to pay for their education without taking on debt, those from less affluent families often face difficult choices: either take on signiﬁcant debt, work long hours while studying, or forgo higher education altogether.

This inequality in access to education has serious implications. It means that talented individuals who could contribute greatly to society are unable to reach their full potential simply because they cannot afford the cost of tuition. This loss of potential is not just a personal tragedy; it is a societal one, as the beneﬁts of an educated populace are well-documented, including higher productivity, lower crime rates, and greater civic engagement.

High tuition fees also influence the academic and career choices of students. Faced with the prospect of significant debt, many students opt for degree programs that they perceive as offering the highest financial return, rather than those that align with their passions or societal needs. For example, students may choose degrees in business or engineering over those in education, the arts, or social work, even if they are more passionate about the latter fields.

THE NEED FOR REFORM

This shift in academic and career choices can have long-term consequences for society. Fields that are critical to the well-being of communities, such as teaching, social work, and the arts, may suffer from a lack of qualiﬁed professionals. Additionally, when students choose careers based solely on ﬁnancial considerations rather than passion or aptitude, job satisfaction and overall well-being may decrease, leading to higher turnover rates and less engaged workers.

Addressing the critical impact of high student fees on education requires comprehensive reform. Governments, educational institutions, and society at large must work together to ﬁnd solutions that make education more aﬀordable and accessible to all. This could include increasing public funding for education, expanding scholarships and grants, and implementing policies that reduce the overall cost of tuition.

Additionally, there should be a focus on creating alternative pathways to education, such as vocational training and online learning, that provide valuable skills without the high cost of traditional university degrees. By broadening the deﬁnition of education and making it more inclusive, we can ensure that more people have the opportunity to succeed.

High student fees are not just a ﬁnancial issue; they are a barrier to opportunity and a driver of inequality. The critical impact of these fees on education affects not only individual students but also the fabric of society. As we look to the future, it is essential that we address this issue head-on, ensuring that education remains a pathway to opportunity for all, regardless of ﬁnancial background. By doing so, we can create a more equitable and prosperous society where everyone has the chance to reach their full potential.

FUN FACTS

DID YOU KNOW?

FUN FACTS FOR ALL AGE

1. Longest Mathematical Proof:

The longest mathematical proof is over 15,000 pages long! It’s a proof for a problem called the classiﬁcation of ﬁnite simple groups and took mathematicians around 30 years to complete.

2. Languages in the World:

There are over 7,000 languages spoken around the world today, but about 40% of them are endangered, with fewer than 1,000 speakers each.

3. Memory Power:

The human brain can hold about 2.5 petabytes (or a million gigabytes) of information—roughly the same amount of data as the entire internet!

4. Longest Word in English:

The longest word in the English language has 189,819 letters and would take over three hours to pronounce! It’s the chemical name for the protein commonly known as Titin.

5. Space Pizza Delivery:

Pizza Hut was the ﬁrst company to deliver pizza to space. In 2001, they delivered a pizza to the International Space Station, and it cost over $1 million!