Community engagement and enrichment through mathematics are integral to the AIMS mission. In addition to conducting cutting-edge research, AIMS students and researchers are expected to engage with the wider community to promote mathematics, empower the next generation of mathematicians, and inspire positive change.

In celebration of Nelson Mandela International Day, AIMS South Africa, in collaboration with Muizenberg Library, hosted a Mathematics Expo-tutorial sessions for Grades 8-11 mathematics learners in Muizenberg and the surrounding areas on the 18 and 20 July. The sessions aimed to inspire and show learners that mathematics can be interesting and exciting through real-life applications and that it is a solution, not a problem. 

The sessions were facilitated by AIMS Master’s and a PhD student – Blessing Ogunlaran, Esau Moyoweshumba, Benvollens Maluleke, Ingrid Kabinde, Tshepo Moropane, Siphosethu Mathonsi, and Siyabonga Mthimkulu. They acted as role models and mentors for the learners. The learners were provided with insights and the best strategies for approaching Euclidean Geometry, a topic that many of them find challenging.

Twenty-four learners from various high schools and colleges attended the sessions, namely Muizenberg High, Ocean View High, Simon’s Town High, Spine Road High, Zwaanswyk High, Steenberg High, Pelican Park High, the South African College of Applied Psychology, and Falsebay College.

Feedback from learners who participated in the two sessions:

“I learned that I should be confident to express my answer. The exercises strengthened my confidence and desire to solve complex sums and what I liked most was the explanation to every question I asked. I wish we had more time.” Grade 10 participant

“The key takeaway message was that I should never give up when I see I’m doing badly in maths. And also that maths is not a problem; it’s a solution.”  Grade 10 participant

“I’ve been struggling a lot with maths lately, I feel like extra maths lessons would benefit me in terms of the teaching styles of the tutors being different from my maths teacher at school. Maybe I can also gain some knowledge on how to practice my maths at home. I learned that Maths is applied to almost everything around me. Maths is all about patience and reading carefully to the problems given to you.” Grade 11 participant

“At the beginning of the session, I felt there were errors on my side when it came to Geometry, and I did not understand, but after the session, I took pointers, and our lecturers were a lot of help, and I walked out with a lot of new information. Thank you so much!! Come again.” College participant

The sessions not only allow AIMS students to share their knowledge and skills to impact the lives of our African youth through mathematics but also allow them to show the learners what it means to do research in mathematics and showcase the wonders of mathematics and science in daily life.

“Facilitating the Math Expo sessions has been a transformative experience for me as an emerging scientist. It has greatly enhanced my self-confidence, particularly in public speaking and communicating complex mathematical concepts to a diverse audience. Engaging with learners from different backgrounds has sharpened my ability to explain ideas clearly and accessibly, which is crucial for effective public engagement and science communication.” Tshepo Nakedi

“The expo left me fulfilled. It gives a sense of fulfilling and enriching, especially after seeing smiles on kids’ faces through and knowing that you have contributed towards their happiness. To me, this event made me realise that I should not underestimate my efforts, especially when it comes to reaching out to others. I realize that, I always have to bring myself to the level of the community members if I am to make an impact to them effectively. ” Esau Moyoweshumba

“Always try to give back no matter how small, because it might be meaningful to someone. We hope that this initiative extends to other surrounding areas for those who could not make it, as I believe, everyone should have access to mathematics. ” Siyabonga Mthimkulu

“I learned that breaking down complex mathematical concepts into simpler, more digestible parts can make a significant difference in student understanding. Clear and effective communication is key to making math accessible and enjoyable.” Siphosethu Lucas

Nelson Mandela International Day, also known as Mandela Day, is an annual global celebration on 18 July, which marks Nelson Mandela’s birthday. It honours his life and legacy by encouraging individuals to devote 67 minutes to helping others, representing the 67 years he dedicated to human rights.