Leadership, Knowledge and Skills for Impactful Science Communication

‘STEM Degrees not Enough for the next generation of African Scholars and Innovators - They must leverage science communication skills, knowledge and aptitudes for excellence!’

The 2026 Africa Scientifique programme at AIMS South Africa continues to strengthen its programmatic framework, delivering impact across two key beneficiary streams: AIMS Mastercard Foundation Scholars and postgraduate students in mathematical sciences from partner universities across South Africa. The programme equips participants with essential science communication and leadership skills, enabling them to engage broader audiences and navigate an evolving scientific and technological landscape. Rooted in an Afrocentric approach, the programme promotes the integration of indigenous knowledge and meaningful public engagement, while strengthening career readiness through communication and leadership development.

In March 2026, the Phase 1: Introductory Workshops were delivered to postgraduate students in the mathematical sciences at the Cape Peninsula University of Technology (CPUT), the University of Fort Hare (UFH), Sol Plaatje University (SPU), and the University of Zululand (UNIZULU).

These Workshops introduced participants to AIMS, the programme’s pan-African vision, and the critical role of science communication in strengthening both societal impact and career pathways. Sessions were facilitated by Dr Rejoyce Gavhi-Molefe (AIMS South Africa) and Dr Elizabeth Rasekoala (African Gong), with contributions from Africa Scientifique programme alumni who shared their experiences and insights on the programme’s impact.

Across the four institutions, more than 110 postgraduate students and staff members participated, marking an important step toward building a critical mass of science communicators and a strong, connected network of emerging South African scientists.

CPUT Cohort – 4 March 2026 (in-person)

The Introductory Workshop for the CPUT cohort brought together 45 postgraduate diploma and diploma students, along with staff from the Department of Mathematics & Physics. Africa Scientifique alumni who shared their journeys included Ms Marry Thekhwe (MSc Student, AIMS South Africa; AS 2023 Alumna), Mr Siyabonga Mthimkulu (PhD Student, AIMS South Africa; AS 2023 Alumnus), and Ms Masego Mothapo (MSc Student, University of Venda; AS 2024 Alumna).

Special appreciation goes to Mr William Manamela (Mathematics Lecturer & WIL Coordinator, CPUT, and AIMS 2014 Alumnus) and Dr Thomas Farrar (Head of Department, CPUT) for facilitating the partnership, hosting, and contributing to the workshop.

UFH Cohort – 10 March 2026 (hybrid)

The UFH workshop engaged 23 postgraduate students and staff from the Department of Computational Sciences. Alumni contributors included Ms Nombali Qodi (Research, Development and Membership Officer, African Astronomical Society; AS 2022 Alumna) and Mr Londani Tshindane (Lecturer, University of Venda; AS 2021 Alumnus).

Acknowledgement is extended to Prof Dephney Mathebula-Periolai (Professor in Mathematics, UFH; AIMS 2014 Alumna) and Prof Prins Abraham (Head of Department, Computational Sciences, University of Fort Hare) for facilitating the partnership, hosting, and contributing to the workshop.

SPU Cohort – 10 March 2026 (hybrid)

At SPU, 19 postgraduate students and staff from the Department of Mathematical Sciences participated in the workshop. Alumni speakers included Ms Sophy Mashashane Kgoahla (MSc Financial Engineering Candidate, WorldQuant University; AS 2025 Alumna) and Mr Prince Ndivhuwo Tshivhasa (Data Scientist, Standard Bank; AS 2022 Alumnus).

Thanks are extended to Dr Stephen Sikwila (Senior Lecturer, SPU) and Dr Dimpho Mothibi (Head of Department, Mathematical Sciences, SPU) for their role in facilitating the partnership, hosting, and contributing to the workshop.

UNIZULU Cohort – 20 March 2026 (hybrid)

The UNIZULU workshop welcomed 24 postgraduate students and staff from the Department of Mathematical Sciences. Alumni contributors included Ms Nokuthula Mhlongo (MSc Student, University of Zululand; AS 2025 Alumna) and Mr Ayanda Ndimande (MSc Student, University of Limpopo; AS 2025 Alumnus).

Special thanks to Ms Zama Khumalo (Lecturer, University of Zululand) and Dr Njabulo Mkhize (Head of Department, Mathematical Sciences, University of Zululand) for facilitating the partnership, hosting, and contributing to the workshop.

What’s Next?

Students from CPUT, UNIZULU, SPU, and UFH will now join peers at AIMS South Africa for the Phase 2 three-day intensive, interactive workshop from 15-17 April 2026. It will provide opportunities for the participants to continue their journey and delve deeper into the world of science communication/public engagement and the potential leverage that it can engender for their career advancement.

The participants are already excited about the opportunity and ready to embark on the second leg of their science communication journey.

“I wish to attend Africa Scientifique 3-day Workshop to transition from a researcher into a science leader who can engage effectively with the public.”

“I want to grow as an upcoming mathematical scientist… I believe attending this workshop is going to be a real game changer for me.”

“Being able to communicate clearly and engage with an audience is just as important as having strong technical knowledge.”

“I want to become more confident in my speaking and presenting abilities… I would like to get rid of these habits.”