In many countries this problem is the result of a poor mathematic teaching in primary and secondary school, the insufficient preparation of teachers, the use of inadequate mathematic books, and the use of inappropriate methodology to teach mathematic at this level. However, in some countries the problem exists even at University level
I think that the main reason is the lack of scientific honesty by the teacher himself, which lead to the realization of science as a commerce. Best regards.
In my opinion, the government should support the education at all level, providing the necessary resources for public school and support for private school as and when necessary. However, the government should not interfere with the content of the books to be used in school to avoid the introduction of political and ideological ideas that correspond to the ideology of the political party in power. Parents, pupils, students, among others, should have an active role in social media.
Each of you pointed to some of the facts that affect that the mathematical skills steadily declining . First of all the government should support education at all levels by providing the necessary resources as Jorge Morales says, and forther plans and programs are very important, and the most important of all are good teachers in primary and secondary school and professors as the performers and implementer of these programs Besides, the Bologna way of study has also led to the declining of the study level.
Highly qualified, well experience, gifted, learner-centered, skillful, passionate, self-motivated, effective, efficient, great classroom manger, planner, competent mathematics instructor with excellent social skills and soft skills are available; may be your program did not hire them to do the job.
I can share from your frustration and fear about the future of current generation and coming generation, the way education system is heeding to. It’s appalling. In a digital age. The policy makers seem to be aware of the situations but they cannot provide any help. A cursory search of conditions and state of our education institutions, I found the following articles, which may interest you. In the articles you will see the current climate of education in general.
I used mathematics as a case in study because of its importance. Second, we are in modern society where mathematics skills such problem solving, critical thinking, decision making, and analytic reason are indispensable. These skills inform the STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, & Mathematics).
Honestly, I agreed with you about the way out for how Africa can address her education challenges.