MATHEMATICAL MODELING — A BRIDGE TO STEM INNOVATION

From October 19 to 23, 2026, the Department of Mathematics and Mathematical Modeling of the E. Umetov Pedagogical Institute at B. Osmonov Jalal-Abad State University held a Mathematics Week.As part of the scheduled program, Mairamgul Narbekovna Nurmatova, Candidate of Physical and Mathematical Sciences and Acting Associate Professor, delivered a presentation entitled “Mathematical Modeling — A Bridge to STEM Innovation.” The event was attended by students from group FMBB(M)-1-25 and the department’s academic staff.The presentation highlighted the role of mathematical modeling in STEM education and explored how mathematical knowledge can be applied to solving real-world problems. At the beginning of the event, the interactive tool Plickers was used to assess students’ initial understanding of STEM.The presentation then featured a practical optimization problem: determining the minimum amount of material required to make a box. By applying derivatives, the presenter demonstrated how to formulate a mathematical model and determine an optimal solution. This example illustrated the practical value of mathematical analysis in addressing real-life challenges.Real-world examples were also discussed, with problems involving balloons generating particularly lively discussion. Students actively shared their ideas, participated in the discussion, and explored how mathematical concepts could be connected to practical situations.The event aimed to deepen students’ understanding of STEM education and mathematical modeling while highlighting the importance of applying mathematical methods to practical problem-solving.