At just 35, Dr. Angela Tabiri has carved a niche in quantum mathematics while launching initiatives aimed at empowering young African girls. Through mentoring programs and innovative courses, she champions the integration of mathematics and technology, paving the way for a new generation of female leaders in STEM.**
Empowering Ghana's Future Through Quantum Mathematics: Dr. Angela Tabiri’s Journey**
Empowering Ghana's Future Through Quantum Mathematics: Dr. Angela Tabiri’s Journey**
Dr. Angela Tabiri, dubbed the Maths Queen of Ghana, embarks on a mission to inspire young girls in Africa to embrace mathematics and quantum science, breaking traditional gender stereotypes.**
Dr. Angela Tabiri, widely recognized as Ghana's Maths Queen, has become an inspirational figure, winning The Big Internet Math Off competition and championing women in the field of mathematics. At the core of her mission is a desire to dismantle the long-standing stereotypes that deem math as a "boy's subject," specifically in Africa where female representation in STEM remains low.
Dr. Tabiri's influence extends beyond her remarkable competition achievement. As the academic manager of the Girls in Mathematical Sciences Programme at the African Institute for Mathematical Sciences (Aims) in Ghana, she is dedicated to mentoring young women and fostering a pipeline of talented female mathematicians. Established in 2020, this initiative seeks to encourage girls, ensuring they envision careers in research and innovation, not limited by conventional roles.
Having grown up in a challenging environment in Ashaiman, Dr. Tabiri’s journey into mathematics was serendipitous. With aspirations initially aimed at business administration, her acceptance into a math and economics program proved transformative. After pursuing her PhD in Scotland, she experienced a monumental shift in perception after watching the film "Hidden Figures," recognizing the untold stories of black mathematicians who have shaped history.
Now, witnessing Ghanaian milestones in academia, such as Dr. Gloria Botchway's debut as the first female PhD graduate in math from the University of Ghana, Dr. Tabiri actively supports the dreams of girls from underserved backgrounds through her FemAfricMaths non-profit. By providing direct lessons and utilizing social media to connect them with prominent female mathematicians, she aims to create a sustainable support system.
Her focus on the burgeoning field of quantum science further encapsulates her vision. As Ghana leads a proposal for the UN International Year of Quantum Science and Technology in 2025, Dr. Tabiri advocates for early exposure to quantum education. With plans to introduce "quantum road shows" and host a "Quantum Hackathon," she envisions engaging youth to explore the complexities of modern technologies that will shape their futures.
As Africa's population grows and evolves into the world's largest workforce by 2040, Dr. Tabiri emphasizes the urgency of preparing young talents to seize emerging opportunities in the fast-paced realm of technology. By nurturing interest in math and quantum science, she hopes to empower a new generation of innovators equipped to face the challenges ahead. Her initiatives symbolize a beacon of hope and progress for young women across Africa, aiming for unprecedented heights in STEM fields.
