In recent years, the representation of women in STEM fields has become a focal point for discussions surrounding education and social equity. The incredible achievements of Dr. Angela Tabiri, affectionately known as the “Maths Queen,” serve as a significant case study in this ongoing dialogue. As the first African to win The Big Internet Math Off competition, Dr. Tabiri is paving the way for young African women to pursue careers in mathematics and related disciplines. Her journey from a challenging upbringing in Ashaiman, Ghana, to an inspirational academic figure showcases the importance of mentorship, representation, and the need to rethink the narratives surrounding women in mathematics.
Dr. Tabiri’s commitment to empowering women in mathematics is evident through her leadership role in the Girls in Mathematical Sciences Programme at the African Institute for Mathematical Sciences (AIMS) in Ghana. Launched in 2020, this initiative aims to ensure a steady pipeline of young female mathematicians who can thrive in academia and industry. The program addresses the alarming trend where the number of female students pursuing mathematics drops significantly at the university level. Many girls in Ghana, as reported by Dr. Tabiri, assume that a mathematics degree limits them to teaching, a perception deeply rooted in the stereotype that math is a “boy’s subject.”
A significant milestone for Ghana came in 2024 with Dr. Gloria Botchway becoming the first woman to earn a PhD in mathematics from the University of Ghana. This historic event has resonated deeply within the community and highlights the ongoing need to support women in academia. Dr. Tabiri’s FemAfricMaths non-profit organization is doing precisely that by providing lessons and mentorship to young girls from less privileged backgrounds, utilizing both in-person and online platforms to enhance access to education. Additionally, her active engagement on social media, where she shares interviews with prominent female mathematicians worldwide, serves to create a supportive network for budding mathematicians.
The importance of quantum science and technology is another critical element of Dr. Tabiri’s vision. As she seeks to establish Ghana as a hub for quantum research, her advocacy for declaring 2025 the UN International Year of Quantum Science and Technology highlights the potential of this field, especially in relation to the global technological race. Countries such as the US, China, and Australia are investing heavily in quantum technologies, which have implications for diverse sectors, including medicine, cybersecurity, and environmental science. Dr. Tabiri’s proposed “quantum road show,” aimed at introducing schoolchildren to quantum science at an early age, reflects her understanding that early exposure is key to fostering interest in advanced fields.
However, the surge in interest in quantum technologies brings forth various challenges that need careful consideration. As we stand on the brink of a potential revolution in the workforce dynamics, Dr. Tabiri emphasizes the role of education in preparing the next generation to meet the demands of an evolving job market. With projections indicating that Africa will have the youngest and largest workforce globally by 2040, there is an urgent need to align educational initiatives with industry requirements. Experts and educators must come together to ensure that young people are not only introduced to these advanced concepts but are also equipped with the necessary skills to thrive in such an environment.
A significant aspect of this initiative involves recognizing barriers that may hinder young women from pursuing careers in math and quantum technology. Dr. Tabiri’s mentoring efforts, both through her academic work and her FemAfricMaths organization, seek to challenge traditional perceptions and dismantle stereotypes that discourage girls from engaging with mathematics. The emphasis on visibility and role models is crucial; representations of successful women in STEM fields can inspire the next generation and instill a sense of possibility in young girls who might otherwise feel excluded from such pursuits.
Moreover, collaboration with organizations like UNESCO to host events such as “Quantum Hackathons” reflects an innovative approach to problem-solving that bridges theoretical knowledge and real-world applications. These initiatives not only foster practical skills among participants but also serve to demystify complex concepts like quantum computing. By empowering young women and men alike to engage in these subjects actively, the initiative aims to create a culture of innovation that extends beyond traditional education.
As Dr. Tabiri’s mission unfolds, stakeholders at various levels must be vigilant. They must actively communicate the importance of gender equity in STEM while simultaneously advocating for systemic changes within educational institutions to address entrenched biases. Research and policies should focus on enhancing mentorship programs, establishing scholarships for women in STEM, and providing resources to schools that lack adequate facilities.
In conclusion, Dr. Angela Tabiri’s journey and mission are not just about her personal achievements but rather a larger call to action for society. By nurturing a new generation of female mathematicians, her efforts promise to invigorate the educational landscape and promote economic growth and innovation across Africa. The vision for a more equitable future is attainable, but it demands concerted efforts from all sectors of society. Advocates must harness the momentum generated by trailblazers like Dr. Tabiri and work collaboratively to create pathways that encourage young women to dream big—and to achieve even bigger in the realms of mathematics and science.
