The engagement opened with an exciting Spoken Word performance by two Scholars, on what it means to be supported by the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program. This was followed by welcoming remarks by Mrs. Beauty Beatrice Kwawu, Program Manager at the Centre, who emphasized the value of continuous dialogue between partners and students in strengthening the Scholars Program. She noted that such interactions offer Scholars a deeper understanding of the program’s vision and encourage them to take ownership of their learning and leadership journey.

Dr. Rhoda Hawkins, Academic Director of AIMS Ghana highlighted the Scholars’ remarkable progress in their academic and personal development. She encouraged them to make the most of the opportunity to connect with representatives from the Mastercard Foundation, whose partnership continues to make world-class STEM education accessible to Africa’s brightest minds.

A key aspect of the event was the roundtable conversation led by Basirat Agboola, Acting Head of the Scholars Program Partner Network at the Mastercard Foundation. The discussion provided an open platform for Scholars to share their experiences, challenges and aspirations. Ms. Agboola commended the Scholars for their resilience and academic dedication, urging them to embrace leadership, collaboration and innovation in their pursuit of excellence.

The interactive session concluded with a Q&A segment and closing reflections, during which participants expressed gratitude for the opportunity to engage directly with the Foundation’s representatives. The program ended with a group photograph, symbolizing unity and the shared vision of transforming Africa through education and leadership.

The visit reinforced the strong partnership between AIMS Ghana and the Mastercard Foundation and reflected a mutual commitment to empowering Africa’s youth to shape the continent’s future through science, technology, and innovation.

1. MSc in Mathematical Sciences for Teachers (MMST) – Cohort 2024–2026

The MMST students will undertake their part-time research phase from late February to early June 2026. We are seeking supervisors to guide them through this critical stage of their academic journey.

Projects must include substantial mathematical content. Topics in mathematics education are welcome, provided they incorporate mathematics or statistics at the Master’s level.

Supervisors must hold a PhD and be qualified to supervise Master’s or PhD students in their home institutions. Most supervision will take place online.

If you would like to propose a research topic, please complete the MMST Topics Google Form  by 5 December 2025.

2. MSc in Mathematical Sciences (Regular Program) – Cohort 2025–2026

Students in the regular MSc program will embark on their full-time research phase from early April to early June 2026. We welcome research supervisors to support their short but intensive research experience.

Projects should be designed at the Master’s level in mathematical sciences and must involve sufficiently advanced mathematics. Supervisors should hold a PhD and be qualified to supervise postgraduate students in their home country. As with the MMST program, most supervision will occur online.

Interested supervisors are invited to submit project proposals via the Regular MSc Topics Google Form by  5 February 2026.

Join us in mentoring the next generation of African mathematical scientists and educators. Your guidance can help shape the future of STEM education and research across the continent.

Click to Download Project Guidelines/ Marking Scheme:

The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program orientation, opened with welcome remarks from Dr. Rhoda J. Hawkins, Academic Director at AIMS Ghana, who congratulated the Scholars on their admission under the Program and encouraged them to embrace AIMS Ghana’s culture of collaboration and intellectual curiosity. She emphasized that while the AIMS environment provides advanced mathematical training, it is also a community where leadership and service to society are nurtured.

Following this, the Senior Manager, Communications, Mr. John Appiah, delivered an inspiring message on behalf of the Centre President, highlighting the partnership between AIMS and the Mastercard Foundation. Speaking about qualities such as responsibility, gratitude and give-back which he urged the Scholars to embody, he also encouraged them to make the most of the unique opportunities the Program offers, ranging from mentorship and leadership development to engagement with real-world challenges.

A highlight of the orientation was the Scholars Program Alumni panel, where former scholars including; Prince Dorcis Akpaglo, Dorcas Ajayi Anuoluwapo, Livingstone Nyamadi, Abigail Baidoo and Bashira Naa Kwarley Quartey, shared personal stories about their academic experiences, community engagement and leadership journeys during and after AIMS. Their insights underscored the Program’s transformative impact and its focus on giving back to society.

Mrs. Beauty Beatrice Kwawu, Program Manager for the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at the Centre, provided an overview of the Program’s vision, structure and the support systems available to Scholars. She highlighted that in Phase two of the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at AIMS, transition pathways after Scholars’ academic program was a key area of interest, such that Scholars would receive support, whether it was to transition into academia, industry or entrepreneurship. Mrs. Kwawu further led an onboarding session for the new Scholars on the Baobab platform, which is a social and professional platform for Mastercard Foundation alumni and encouraged the Scholars to use the opportunity to not only achieve academic success but also to build strong networks, such that they can contribute meaningfully to their communities.

Dr. Abdulmajid Osmanu, Knowledge and Technology Transfer (KTT) Specialist, also threw some insight into the transition process especially for Scholars who would prefer to move into industry or entrpreneurship. The event concluded with motivational remarks from the Academic Manager, Dr. Angela Tabiri as well as a challenge session and a lively Q&A session led by Mr. Joel Bamfo Appiah, Monitoring and Evaluation Manager, providing scholars with an opportunity to interact, ask questions and familiarize themselves with key aspects of the program.

With this new cohort, AIMS Ghana and the Mastercard Foundation continue their joint mission to cultivate a generation of ethical leaders and innovators who will shape a brighter future for Africa.

The Summit brought together over a thousand researchers, policymakers, diplomats, funders, and civil society groups to explore how cutting-edge science can be harnessed to address humanity’s most pressing challenges through diplomacy, collaboration, and foresight. Representing AIMS Ghana, the delegation actively engaged in discussions around artificial intelligence, quantum science, and international relations, all anchored on the thought-provoking question, “What does it mean to be human in the 21st century?” They joined conversations about open science, anticipatory governance, and how STEM innovation can shape a more connected and resilient world.

At the heart of GESDA’s agenda lies the call to anticipate global challenges before they escalate into crises, an approach that resonates strongly with AIMS Ghana’s vision of using mathematical sciences to drive sustainable development across Africa. Through engagements at the summit, Dr. Prince Osei emphasized the importance of integrating African perspectives into global science diplomacy and ensuring that the continent’s scientific capacity grows alongside global innovation.

The participation of the QUALARIA team in GESDA’s ecosystem is a continuation of the groundbreaking work done during the AIMS QTEdu Quantathon 2025, held in July at the AIMS Ghana campus. The hackathon, organised in collaboration with OQI, challenged young African innovators to design quantum computing solutions addressing the UN Sustainable Development Goals. Participants worked on projects involving malaria drug discovery, desalination, and sustainable energy solutions using quantum simulation platforms. The QUALARIA team, featuring Augustina Agyeman and Prince Dorcis, developed an innovative quantum model to accelerate ligand identification for malaria research, earning them both the top and sustainability awards. Their appearance at the GESDA Summit symbolised the rise of African youth on the global quantum stage.

AIMS Ghana’s involvement at GESDA underscores a growing commitment to embed African expertise in the evolving fields of quantum science, artificial intelligence, and science diplomacy. It highlights the need for Africa to be represented at global decision-making tables where technology and humanity intersect. The experience reaffirmed three central lessons: that anticipatory science diplomacy is key in an era of rapid innovation; that African institutions can drive scalable, real-world applications of quantum science; and that inclusive international partnerships are essential for a balanced global future.

By participating in GESDA 2025, AIMS Ghana not only showcased leadership in quantum education and foresight but also reaffirmed its role as a vital voice in shaping a future where African innovation and collaboration are indispensable. As Dr. Osei aptly stated, “The future of quantum and AI is not predetermined elsewhere, Africa has a seat, a voice, and a stake.” With alumni like Augustina Agyeman and Prince Dorcis leading the charge, the message is clear: Africa’s scientific community is ready to anticipate, collaborate, and lead.

Photo credit: AIMS, GESDA, and OQI

Due to the flexibility of the AIMS GMSP, while Princess was still in senior high school, she was immersed in a stimulating environment that went beyond equations and problem-solving through a blend of virtual and residential sessions over a 9-month period. What began as an opportunity to explore her curiosity and potential has since blossomed over the past years into a remarkable story of determination, growth and impact.

Motivated by this foundation at AIMS, Princess applied to pursue a Bachelor of Arts in Mathematics and Statistics at the University of Ghana, Legon and over the course of four years, her hard work and resilience earned her a First Class Honours. Her achievement stands as a testament not only to her academic excellence but also to the vision behind the AIMS GMSP, empowering young women to rise through the ranks of STEM education and contribute meaningfully to the continent’s scientific advancement.

Now, the journey comes full circle as Princess Pearl Amanie joins AIMS Ghana once again, this time as a Master’s student in Mathematical Sciences (Class of 2025/2026). Her story beautifully captures the impact of working from the bottom up, where investing in young girls through programs like AIMS GMSP builds a strong foundation that continues to bear fruit.

Her success highlights growing gender-responsive public engagement efforts at AIMS Ghana, where pathways are being created for talented female students to transition from early mentorship into advanced scientific training. This ripple effect strengthens the pipeline of women in mathematics and related fields, inspiring others to follow in her footsteps.

Princess Pearl’s journey at AIMS Ghana reflects her deep passion for using mathematics to solve real-world problems. Eager to strengthen her knowledge in applied mathematics, particularly in partial differential equations, functional analysis, and numerical analysis she is honing both her theoretical and computational skills to make meaningful scientific contributions. Her experience collaborating with diverse peers and faculty at AIMS is shaping her into a well-rounded scholar, ready to take on complex challenges.

“I want to apply mathematics to real-life problems while improving my theoretical and computational abilities,” she shared, adding that her time at AIMS is equipping her with the tools to do just that. Looking ahead, she aspires to pursue a PhD in Applied Mathematics, developing analytical tools to address issues in the environment, epidemiology, and engineering. Beyond research, Princess Pearl hopes to teach, mentor and inspire future mathematicians, sharing the transformative power of knowledge and helping build a strong culture of scientific inquiry and problem-solving in her community.

The program commenced with a warm welcome and introductions led by Dr. Angela Tabiri, Academic Manager at AIMS Ghana. She expressed her excitement about meeting the new group of young women selected for the GMSP, commending their interest and dedication to pursuing mathematics. This was followed by a brief welcome address from Dr. Rhoda Hawkins, Academic Director at AIMS Ghana, who highlighted the importance of empowering girls through STEM education. She encouraged participants to embrace the program as a platform for growth, collaboration and discovery.

Dr. Tabiri then facilitated an interactive icebreaker session, setting a lively tone for the session and encouraging the girls to share their interests and aspirations. The highlight of the orientation was the Program Spotlight, during which Dr. Tabiri elaborated on the vision and objectives of the Girls in Mathematical Sciences Program. She explained that the initiative seeks to nurture mathematically talented young women in Ghana, equipping them with advanced problem-solving skills, mentorship and exposure to real-world applications of mathematics.

The event also featured an Ignite Session with two program alumni; Nancy Kusagah (GMSP 2022) and Theodetia Djagmah (GMSP 2024); who shared how the program had shaped their academic journeys and inspired them to pursue careers in science and technology. Their stories motivated the new participants to remain focused, curious and resilient in their studies.

A fun and competitive Maths Challenge followed, sparking enthusiasm and collaboration among the participants. The session concluded with networking in breakout rooms, providing a space for the girls to connect and exchange experiences, before ending with closing remarks, feedback and a group photo.

The orientation served not only as a welcoming event but also as a powerful reminder of AIMS Ghana’s commitment to advancing gender equity in STEM and inspiring the next generation of female mathematicians in Africa.

World Teachers’ Day, celebrated annually on October 3, commemorates the adoption of the 1966 ILO/UNESCO Recommendation concerning the Status of Teachers and the 1997 Recommendation concerning the Status of Higher Education Teaching Personnel. These landmark frameworks define the rights, responsibilities, and professional standards of teachers while emphasizing the vital role they play in shaping societies.

This year’s theme highlights collaboration as a cornerstone of effective teaching and learning. Around the world, teachers continue to work tirelessly to nurture learners and innovate within their classrooms, yet many do so in isolation, with limited opportunities for mentorship or professional networks. UNESCO and the UN’s High-Level Panel on the Teaching Profession have underscored the urgency of transforming teaching into a collaborative, well-supported profession, one sustained by shared learning, peer engagement, and mutual growth.

At AIMS Ghana, collaboration among teachers, researchers and students lies at the heart of its mission to advance quality mathematical education across Africa. Through initiatives like the Master’s in Mathematical Sciences for Teachers (MMST) and the Helping Teachers Training in Mathematics Conference (HTTMC) in collaboration with the University of Waterloo, Canada, AIMS Ghana continues to build communities of practice that bridge the gap between academia and classroom realities.

The MMST program, designed for in-service mathematics teachers, offers a unique opportunity for educators to deepen their mathematical knowledge while engaging in research and professional development. Beyond academic training, the program fosters peer learning, co-teaching, and collaborative problem-solving, key elements of the UNESCO vision for transforming education. By equipping teachers with advanced mathematical tools and promoting teamwork, AIMS Ghana ensures that educators return to their classrooms not only with greater subject mastery but also with renewed confidence and a spirit of cooperation.

Similarly, the HTTMC, an annual flagship event of AIMS Ghana, serves as a platform for teachers from across Africa to connect, share experiences, and explore innovative approaches to teaching mathematics. The conference emphasizes the importance of dialogue among educators, researchers and policymakers, creating a space where collaborative ideas can translate into tangible classroom practices.

Reflecting on the value of collaboration, teachers from the MMST Program at AIMS shared powerful insights on how teamwork transforms mathematics education. From Ghana to Rwanda, Eswatini to Nigeria, teachers described how working together inspires creativity, reduces barriers to learning, and builds supportive professional communities.

One teacher, Joyceline Kpabitey from Labone Senior High, Ghana, summarized it saying: “When educators plan, teach, and reflect together, they ignite excellence. Collaboration fuels passion, deepens understanding, and creates classrooms where every student feels seen, supported, and inspired to think boldly.”

As AIMS Ghana joins the global education community in celebrating World Teachers’ Day 2025, it reaffirms its commitment to empowering teachers as collaborators, innovators, and changemakers. By nurturing strong networks of educators across Africa, AIMS continues to strengthen the foundations of inclusive, high-quality education, ensuring that teaching remains not a solitary pursuit, but a shared journey toward transforming the future of learning.

The new intake reflects AIMS’ mission to nurture Africa’s next generation of problem-solvers, innovators, and scientific leaders. Over the coming year, students will be immersed in world-class training, collaborative research, and leadership development, equipping them to tackle some of the continent’s and the world’s most pressing challenges.

AIMS Ghana remains committed to ensuring that the Class of 2025/26 has a wholesome and impactful experience, combining rigorous academics with mentorship, community engagement, and opportunities to connect with global partners in science and industry.

As the journey begins, our Centre celebrates this milestone with the certainty that these students will go on to shape the future of science, technology and innovation across Africa.

Key activities that formed part of the QTEdu Global Event included:

• The AIMS Quantum Hackathon (Quantathon), held in partnership with the Open Quantum Institute (OQI)

• The Global Quantum Science & Technology Education Workshop

• A Public Lecture and Keynote Panel on Quantum Science & Technology

Led by Dr. Price K. Osei, AIMS Ghana’s Centre President and Director for Quantum Leap Africa (QLA), the Quantathon was designed with a clear mission to create meaningful opportunities for African students to engage in quantum education and to challenge them to develop applications that could contribute to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Based on the Open Quantum Institute Educational Consortium’s “Hackathon in a Box” toolkit, the 3-day event blended practical experimentation with theoretical learning, to guide students to think creatively about quantum algorithms that could support sustainable development.

The AIMS Quantum Technology Education (QTEdu) 2025 program unfolded as a rich series of activities bringing together young innovators and key experts for scientific talks, keynote addresses, and team ideation. The QTEdu Global Event featured insights from Ian Walmsley (Provost, Imperial College London), Philipp Kammerlander (Open Quantum Institute) and Trond Andersen (Google Quantum), among others, before culminating in final presentations and awards at the Marriott Hotel.

Running alongside this, the QTEdu Workshop at the Google AI Lab hosted panels and deep-dive sessions with experts like Karen Hallberg, Jonathan Oppenheim, Marcelo Terra Cunha and Maité Dupuis on building a quantum-ready workforce. The program concluded on 11 July with a high-profile public lecture at the University of Ghana, where Professor Jonathan Oppenheim delivered the keynote “Our Quantum Future,” followed by a panel with Angela Tabiri and Prince K. Osei, engaging policymakers, researchers, and the public. Across these activities, spanning technical training, innovation, and thought leadership, AIMS Ghana positioned Africa at the forefront of the global quantum technology movement.

Over three days, seven multidisciplinary teams worked intensively on real-world problem-solving, addressing areas ranging from healthcare to access to clean water. The winning team, Qualaria (Quantum Leap Against Malaria), impressed the judges with a quantum simulation approach designed to fast-track drug development for malaria, a disease that continues to affect millions across Africa. For their innovative and impact-driven solution, Qualaria also received the sustainability award. The team included Ndam Abibou, Dorcas Seshie, Astride Melvin Fokam Ninyim, Prince Dorcis and Augustina Agyeman.

For AIMS Ghana, the Quantathon was more than just a competition, it was a milestone in demonstrating how Africa can take a leading role in shaping the future of emerging technologies. By empowering young people with cutting-edge knowledge and tools, AIMS continues to build capacity, nurture talent and create pathways for African youth to contribute to solving global problems through science and innovation.

The week’s activities reaffirmed AIMS Ghana’s position as a Centre for excellence in mathematical sciences and its commitment to ensuring that transformative technologies like quantum computing are developed inclusively and for the benefit of society. As AIMS and its partners look to the future, the Quantathon stands as a powerful example of what can be achieved when education, innovation, and collaboration come together to tackle global challenges from an African perspective.

Click for more about the AIMS QTEdu Global Event