AIMS South Africa is pleased to announce the appointment of Prof Karin-Therese Howell as its new Director, effective 1 December 2025. Prof Howell previously served as the Institute’s Academic Director and has played a central role in shaping AIMS South Africa’s academic programmes and postgraduate training.
Prof. Howell has been part of AIMS South Africa for many years and is widely respected for her commitment to strengthening mathematical sciences education on the continent. She has contributed significantly to academic quality, student support, and the promotion of women in mathematics through her national leadership roles.
“AIMS South Africa is a place where potential and opportunity meet. It has been a privilege to be part of the Institute’s academic leadership, and I am honoured to step into this new role. I look forward to continuing the work of nurturing Africa’s next generation of scientific leaders, deepening our partnerships, and expanding AIMS’s impact across the continent,” noted Prof Howell about her appointment.
Chairperson of the AIMS South Africa Council, Prof David Holgate, welcomed the appointment: “Prof Howell brings a rare combination of academic excellence, strategic insight and people-centred leadership. Her longstanding commitment to AIMS, her advocacy for women in mathematics, and her dedication to inclusive academic spaces make her an exceptional leader for the Institute. We are confident she will guide AIMS South Africa into an exciting new chapter.”
Chief Operating Officer, François van Eyssen reflects on the appointment: “The selection process was extremely competitive, yet Karin distinguished herself with a compelling vision for AIMS South Africa’s future. Her passion, fresh ideas, confidence, and deeply human leadership style stood out at every stage. This appointment marks a moment of real optimism for our community, and we are excited to embark on this next chapter together.”
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