What this life looks like
You speak the language of the universe. Mathematicians develop and apply mathematical theory, solving abstract problems that underpin everything from computer algorithms to financial models to physical laws. Pure mathematicians explore mathematical structures for their own sake, while applied mathematicians use mathematical tools to solve real-world problems.
What she actually does
You identify mathematical problems worth solving, develop proofs and theoretical frameworks, apply mathematical methods to model real-world phenomena, collaborate with scientists and engineers who need mathematical tools, teach mathematics at university level, and develop algorithms that power computing, encryption, and data science.
Where you can work
| Sector | Places in Africa |
|---|---|
| Universities & AIMS | African Institute for Mathematical Sciences campuses across five African countries |
| Research Institutions | National research foundations, SAMS South Africa, African Mathematical Union |
| Finance | Quantitative analyst roles in Standard Bank, FirstRand, Old Mutual, African insurance companies |
| Tech Companies | Algorithm development, cryptography, and data science roles at African and global tech firms |
Why it matters in Africa
Africa has a severe shortage of mathematical talent at the highest levels, which limits progress in science, technology, and data-driven policy. The African Institute for Mathematical Sciences (AIMS) — with campuses across the continent — is working to change this. Mathematicians with strong quantitative skills are in demand across finance, tech, and research.
Your pathway in
- Develop exceptional Mathematics skills at school — participate in mathematics olympiads
- Study Mathematics or Applied Mathematics at university, targeting the strongest programmes available
- Apply to the African Institute for Mathematical Sciences (AIMS) for postgraduate study
- Pursue a PhD in Mathematics for an academic career or high-level research role
- Compete in mathematics competitions to build skills and visibility
Skills you will need
- Abstract and logical reasoning
- Proof writing
- Mathematical modelling
- Programming (Python, MATLAB, R)
- Statistical analysis
- Scientific communication
A woman in this field
Prof. Josephine Guidy-Wandja
Ivory Coast
Josephine is a pioneering Ivorian mathematician and the first African woman to hold a PhD in Mathematics. She has spent her career breaking barriers in higher education and is a Professor at the University of Abidjan. Her research in Geometry and her leadership in the International Committee on Mathematics in Developing Countries (ICOMIDC) have made her a global advocate for scientific equity. She is also known for using her platform to encourage young women to see mathematics as a tool for personal and national liberation.
Take your first step
- Participate in mathematics olympiads and competitions at school — these develop deep problem-solving skills
- Explore the African Institute for Mathematical Sciences at aims.ac.za and their annual programmes
- Practise mathematics beyond your school curriculum using free resources such as Art of Problem Solving at artofproblemsolving.com
- Find a mathematics mentor — a teacher, professor, or older student who loves mathematics