UniAbuja’s ‘Stevematics’ Breaks Barriers as Lone First-Class Graduate in Mathematics

A graduate of University of Abuja, Stephen Chisom Anthony, popularly known as “Stevematics,” has emerged as the only first-class graduate from the Department of Mathematics in the past four years, setting a remarkable academic benchmark and challenging long-held perceptions about the subject.

Anthony not only finished as the best graduating student in his department but also ranked among the top five in his faculty—an achievement considered rare in a programme that had not recorded a first-class graduate since 2021.

Reflecting on his academic journey, the Abia State-born scholar attributed his success to discipline, consistency, and a strong study culture cultivated from his early education in Kaduna. He revealed that he maintained a habit of studying months ahead of examinations and often completed entire textbooks before they were taught in class.

Anthony also credited peer teaching as a major factor in his success, explaining that organising tutorials for classmates deepened his understanding of complex concepts. According to him, teaching others reinforced his mastery and sharpened his analytical thinking.

Beyond academics, he is the founder of Stevematics Home of Tutorials and the Stevematics Mentorship Network—initiatives aimed at supporting students academically while promoting discipline and personal development.

Addressing the widespread fear of Mathematics among students, Anthony described the challenge as largely psychological, often rooted in weak foundational teaching. He emphasised that Mathematics should be taught in ways that connect with real-life applications rather than remaining abstract.

He further dispelled the notion that only exceptionally gifted individuals can excel in Mathematics, stressing that sustained practice and consistency are more critical than innate intelligence.

Despite his success, Anthony acknowledged facing academic hurdles, particularly during his third year, but said he overcame them through extra study hours and additional tutorials.

On the broader state of Mathematics education in Nigeria, he commended lecturers for their efforts but noted systemic challenges, calling for improved practical exposure, better integration of technology, and expanded opportunities for students beyond the classroom.

He concluded by highlighting the vast career prospects available to Mathematics graduates, including data science, financial modelling, actuarial science, and systems engineering, describing mathematicians as highly valuable in today’s global economy.