In honor of the Women in Mathematics Day (May12), an event was organized to celebrate the accomplishments of women in the field of mathematics and to inspire future generations. The festivities, held on May 24, 2024, brought together AIMS-Cameroon students, tutors and staff; along with several students from various high schools in Limbe, to champion diversity and excellence in mathematics. Here is a recap of the celebration:
Mathematics Competition: A stimulating mathematics competition was held, designed to challenge and inspire lower sixth students in various mathematical concepts. Despite invitations extended to four schools, participation was garnered from only three schools in Limbe, namely: Government Bilingual High School, Government High School, and Saker Baptist College. Thirty-five enthusiastic students participated in a problem-solving exercise and the Government Bilingual High School emerged as the victor, followed by Government High School and Saker Baptist College, respectively. Prizes totaling 100,000fcfa were awarded to the top three positions, with Government Bilingual High School claiming the grand prize of 50,000fcfa.
Panel Discussion: A thought-provoking panel discussion featured five women in STEM, each hailing from diverse backgrounds. Dr. Angèle Aja Fowe (AIMS-Cameroon alumna, Class of 2015 & Portfolio Manager, Afriland Frirst Bank), Dr. Lilian Olouch (AIMS tutor), Francoise Gali (AIMS Phd student), Beatrice Nyawa (AIMS Master’s student), and Sintia Laura Nyaffi (AIMS Master’s student), shared their experiences and insights on career paths/studies in STEM, overcoming challenges, and real-world applications of mathematical principles. Their inspiring narratives resonated deeply with the audience, encouraging aspiring mathematicians to pursue their passions with determination and resilience.
Keynote Address: Dr. Angèle Aja Fowe, an esteemed alumna of the AIMS-Cameroon, delivered a compelling keynote address via Zoom, sharing her personal journey, triumphs, and challenges in the field of mathematics. Her motivational words underscored the importance of embracing curiosity, problem-solving skills, and a love for exploration. Dr. Aja Fowe urged attendees to contribute their unique perspectives and creativity to the realm of mathematics, emphasizing its boundless potential for innovation and discovery.
Words of Encouragement: Dr. Lilian Olouch, tutor at AIMS-Cameroon, imparted words of wisdom and encouragement to aspiring women mathematicians. She emphasized the significance of dreaming big, maintaining determination, and cultivating a daring spirit in the pursuit of one’s goals. Dr. Lilian’s uplifting message resonated with attendees, instilling confidence and fortitude in their academic and professional endeavors.
Community Engagement: The International Women in Mathematics Day celebration fostered a sense of community and camaraderie among participants, highlighting the importance of inclusivity and collaboration in the field of mathematics. The event showcased the diverse talents and potential of women in mathematics, paving the way for a more equitable and vibrant future in STEM disciplines.
Attendance: The event attracted a diverse audience, including:
• 45 secondary school students, with 42 being women
• 58 AIMS-Cameroon students
• 2 secondary school teachers (1 male, 1 female)
• 9 AIMS-Cameroon staff (3 females, 6 males)
• 7 tutors, with 1 female representative
In conclusion, the International Women in Mathematics Day celebration was a resounding success, fostering inspiration, empowerment, and community engagement. By honoring the achievements of women in mathematics and nurturing the aspirations of future generations, we pave the way for a more inclusive and equitable future in STEM.
