From 17 to 22 March 2024, AIMS South Africa hosted the Siyakhula Festival, a dynamic week-long celebration in Muizenberg, Cape Town. Coinciding with AIMS’s 20th anniversary, this event also commemorated the 12th anniversary of the German Research Chairs Programme and the 10th anniversary of the Centre of Excellence in Mathematical and Statistical Sciences (CoE-MaSS). “Siyakhula,” translating as “we are growing” in Zulu, underscored the significant growth and influence of AIMS and its associates on the mathematical sciences sphere in Africa and beyond.

Celebrating Milestones of Mathematical Distinction

This festival stood as a testament to the pivotal role of AIMS in propelling mathematical sciences throughout Africa and its contributions to international scientific collaboration. The agenda was rich and varied, encompassing workshops on mathematical optimisation, sessions on artificial intelligence for climate action, and dialogues about women in mathematics, all aimed at fostering substantial engagement and discussion. The opening ceremony welcomed AIMS stakeholders, including students, alumni, and delegates from partner universities, institutions, and policymakers, to celebrate AIMS’s significant advancements in the scientific arena over the past two decades.

“Mathematical Sciences are pivotal to Africa’s developments, and it’s growing! Siyakhula means “we are growing”. The Festival is not just a gathering but a unique platform to share untold stories—stories of those visionaries, leaders, activists, supporters and trailblazers who worked and still are working tirelessly to create and shape the future of the mathematics agenda in Africa for transformation and sustainable society—stories of those scientists who succeeded against the odds to become a beacon of hope and inspiration for millions of young people in Africa” noted Dr Rejoyce Gavhi-Molefe, AIMS House of Science Manager & Siyakhula Chair.

A central feature of the celebration was the keynote address by Prof. Neil Turok, AIMS founder, who recounted the origins of AIMS and its influence across Africa. Following this, the Pan-African AIMS Stories sessions illustrated the developmental trajectories of each AIMS centre of excellence through transformative practices and impacts.

The event also marked the commemoration of significant milestones: the influential journey of the German Research Chairs Programme and the transformative endeavours of CoE-MaSS. These anniversaries highlighted the deep-rooted collaboration and innovation fostered by AIMS and its international partners.

German Research Chairs Programme: Bridging Continents through Mathematics

A key aspect of the event was the celebration of the German Research Chairs Programme at AIMS, which has been instrumental in enhancing AIMS’s research landscape. This initiative has significantly boosted its academic and research capabilities by attracting leading talent to the institute. It facilitated groundbreaking research in mathematical sciences and exemplified the significance of international collaboration in scientific progress.

The event showcased the achievements and innovative projects led by the German Research Chairs, demonstrating the global relevance and impact of their work. It served as a vivid example of how mathematics can act as a universal language, connecting diverse communities and fostering international partnerships.

CoE-MaSS: Cultivating Excellence in Mathematical Sciences

One day of the celebration was dedicated to CoE-MaSS, accentuating its essential role in advancing mathematical and statistical sciences in South Africa. Through keynote speeches and interactive sessions, participants delved into contemporary challenges and achievements in the field, emphasising the centre’s impact on research, education, and societal development. CoE-MaSS’s dedication to interdisciplinary research and educational reform was highlighted, reflecting its pivotal position in progressing the mathematical sciences landscape across Africa.

A Gathering of Minds: Keynote Talks by Special Guests

The celebration of the German Research Chairs at AIMS, beginning on Thursday afternoon, was particularly memorable, featuring keynote addresses by distinguished guests that underscored the importance of international collaboration in mathematics. Prof. Neil Turok offered a compelling introduction, stating, “Science is enriched and renewed by including new cultures. The inclusion of Africans, with their diverse cultures and languages, is set to transform the scientific methodology.” His comments emphasised the transformative potential of incorporating African perspectives into global scientific dialogue.

Prof. Dr. Sabine Döring, State Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Education and Research in Germany, highlighted the German community’s pride and commitment to AIMS’s development across Africa, stating, “Germans are immensely proud to have contributed to the development of AIMS throughout Africa through the establishment of the German Research Chairs.”

Minister Dr. B.E. Nzimande, South Africa’s Minister of Science and Innovation, emphasised the crucial role of mathematical sciences in innovation and national development, remarking, “The significance of mathematical sciences is paramount as it underpins South Africa’s national initiatives, and its central role in 21st-century innovations cannot be overstated. The DSI lauds the work undertaken by AIMS. AIMS occupies a unique position in South Africa and Africa. We continue to pledge our support to AIMS.” His statement highlighted the South African government’s recognition and ongoing backing for AIMS’s unique contributions.

Empowering the Future Through Innovation and Collaboration

Throughout the event, themes of empowerment, innovation, and collaboration were prevalent. Workshops and discussions covered a wide range of topics, from AI for climate action and the promotion of women in mathematics to detailed explorations within topology and functional analysis. These sessions reaffirmed the event’s commitment to tackling global challenges through scientific investigation and critical discourse. By interlinking themes from climate change and gender equity to mathematical disciplines such as topology and functional analysis, the event showcased the versatile nature of mathematics and its relevance to both urgent societal issues and the progression of theoretical knowledge.

The event also highlighted the accomplishments of AIMS alumni, presenting inspiring talks that underscored their journey, contributions, and impact across various sectors. These sessions offered a platform for alumni to share how their education at AIMS has enabled them to utilise mathematics in solving real-world problems, driving innovation, and influencing policy. The alumni talks demonstrated the transformative power of AIMS’s educational model, illustrating not only the academic and professional achievements of its graduates but also their continuous commitment to societal betterment and the embodiment of AIMS’s mission to empower Africa’s brightest minds to excel as global leaders in science and technology. Through these stories, attendees glimpsed potential career pathways, further solidifying the event’s status as a source of inspiration, accomplishment, and aspiration.

More than merely a series of events, this celebration embodied the spirit of progress, showcasing the critical role of mathematics in addressing complex global challenges and enhancing societal well-being. As AIMS moves forward, the event’s legacy of unity, excellence, and innovation serves as a foundation for future initiatives, ensuring that the institute and its network continue to lead in scientific and educational excellence. Thus, this celebration marks a significant chapter in AIMS’s journey, reaffirming the institute’s status as a beacon of hope and a driving force for scientific empowerment and transformation across Africa and the world.