The Contribution of “Bahire-Hasab” Analysis to the Modern Mathematics Education in Ethiopia: Current Conditions, Practical Challenges and Opportunities.

Abstract

This thesis examines the contribution of Bahire-Hasab, a traditional Ethiopian calendric system, to modern mathematics education in Ethiopia. Originating from ancient astronomical and numerical principles, Bahire-Hasab is integral to the Ethiopian Orthodox Tewahido Church for determining liturgical dates and seasons. The researcher prefers the qualitative approach using primary data interview and observation, and secondary data from related books to explores its applications in calculating significant events, such as New Year’s Day, holidays, including Wengelawi of the year, and fasting periods, using algorithms, postulates, and mathematical formulas. While traditionally preserved by priests, the integration of Bahire-Hasab into broader educational frameworks presents opportunities for enhancing mathematical literacy, fostering cultural identity, and bridging traditional knowledge with contemporary educational practices. This study identifies practical challenges, including limited accessibility and expertise, while emphasizing the system’s potential to enrich curriculum development and interdisciplinary studies. This thesis also explore The Contribution of ''Bahire-Hasab" Analysis to the Modern Mathematics Education in Ethiopia There are several opportunities for further integrating the Bahire-Hasab calendar into modern mathematics education and practices Curriculum Development that is Culturally Relevant, Initiatives for Community Engagement. There are Practical challenges include The impact of globalization and the adoption of the Gregorian calendar Institutional barriers within the educational system that limit the integration of traditional calendars into mathematical education, including lack of resources, training, and support for educators within these challenges It contributes to modern mathematics Cyclic Sequences and Sequences, Quotient and Remainder Algorisms, Modulo and Equivalence Classes of 4, 7, 28 and 30. And how to apply Bahire-Hasab using the definitions, postulates, theorems, formulas, and restrictions. By analyzing the numerical structures and sequences inherent in Bahire-Hasab, this research highlights its relevance to arithmetic, geometry, and cyclical patterns, contributing to a deeper understanding of mathematics in the Ethiopian context.