Research and Higher Education in Mathematics: The Philippine Experience

Abstract

Abstract The paper divides into three parts. The first part analyzes the present status of higher mathematics and research in the Philippines, concluding that while undergraduate mathematics training (for the B.S. in mathematics) has reached acceptable levels, graduate training is inadequate and research is barely existent, because professional mathematicians are few and the few that are around are engaged in many non-mathematical tasks. The second part traces the development of mathematics in the Ateneo de Manila: through the initial successes of the undergraduate program, and the difficulties and limitations of the graduate programs. A clear problem area that emerges is the lack of fit between mathematics and Philippine society: unclear career opportunities for mathematicians, relatively low pay for professors and researchers, insufficient funds for the development of mathematics and science (even at minimal levels). The third and final part outlines plans and programs for the future: recruitment, fostering, training of mathematical talent from primary school on; improvement and standardization of the B.S. mathematics in the colleges by concentrating on three core courses as well as a systematization of the applied mathematics area (statistics, actuarial science, computer science, operations research) in the undergraduate curriculum; stabilization and expansion of the present M.S. and Ph.D. programs to meet the need for adequately trained college mathematics teachers and for a school of higher mathematics and mathematical research.