On Monday 9 September, AIMS South Africa kicked off with a vibrant welcome week for the new 2024-2025 intake. The week was packed with activities designed not only to welcome the students but also to facilitate a smooth integration into the AIMS community for both students and staff.

The festivities began with the official welcome and registration, setting a warm and inviting tone for the incoming students. Throughout the week, a series of innovative and interactive events took place:

• Discovery Walks: Students explored the scenic surroundings of Muizenberg, getting to know the area that will be their new home.
• Riddle Hunt: Teams of students tackled mathematical puzzles, fostering collaboration and critical thinking.
• Tag Game: This playful event helped students connect by matching personality traits, encouraging new friendships.
• African Stories: Evening gatherings provided a platform for students to share tales from their home countries, enriching the cultural tapestry of the AIMS community.
• Africa Quiz: This event tested students’ knowledge about the continent, promoting learning in a fun environment.
• Movie Nights: Relaxing evenings where students could unwind and enjoy films together.
• Research Nuggets: An introduction to the AIMS Research Centre where students met with researchers and learned about upcoming projects and opportunities.
• Muscle Algebra: An outdoor fitness class that added a physical dimension to the mathematical focus of AIMS.
• Chat with Alumni: Offering students insights into life after AIMS and potential career paths.
• Braai: The week concluded with a communal braai on Friday night, a beloved South African tradition that brought everyone together in celebration.

The entire week was a communal effort, with staff actively participating in the events, highlighting the inclusive and supportive culture at AIMS. Mr Igsaan Kamalie, the facilities manager, expressed his gratitude, noting, “Thank you for organising this. It was a huge success, and it helps the facilities department with the settling in of students.”

This onboarding week not only set the tone for the academic year but also played a crucial role in building a connected and motivated community at AIMS, ready to tackle the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead in their educational journey.