adminGhana’s Maths Queen Pioneers Quantum Science Education in Africa
Dr. Angela Tabiri, fondly known as the “Maths Queen” in Ghana, has made history by becoming the first African to win *The Big Internet Math Off* competition. This prestigious event, hosted by *The Aperiodical*, celebrates mathematicians who can best explain complex concepts in accessible ways. Her win marks a significant milestone, not just for her but for African women in STEM, a field where gender disparities persist.
A Journey Fueled by Passion and Resilience
Dr. Tabiri’s path to mathematical excellence was not straightforward. Raised in Ashaiman, a bustling neighborhood in Ghana’s Tema region, she initially aspired to study business administration. However, when her grades redirected her to mathematics and economics, she discovered her love for solving puzzles and working with numbers.
This “blessing in disguise,” as she describes it, led her to pursue advanced studies, culminating in a PhD in quantum algebra from the University of Glasgow, Scotland, in 2015. A transformative moment came during her time in Glasgow when she watched *Hidden Figures*, the acclaimed film about African American women mathematicians at NASA. Inspired by Katherine Johnson’s groundbreaking contributions to space exploration, Dr. Tabiri found renewed motivation to advance her career and advocate for women in mathematics.
Championing Girls in Mathematics
As a researcher at the African Institute for Mathematical Sciences (AIMS) in Ghana, Dr. Tabiri leads efforts to mentor and inspire young girls. She serves as the academic manager for the Girls in Mathematical Sciences Programme, which nurtures the next generation of female mathematicians. The program addresses challenges such as societal perceptions that mathematics is a “boy’s subject” and the lack of female role models in STEM fields.
Through her nonprofit initiative, FemAfricMaths, Dr. Tabiri offers mentorship, online lessons, and interviews with global female mathematicians to motivate young women. Her goal is to show that a career in mathematics extends far beyond teaching, encompassing opportunities in academia, industry, and groundbreaking research.
Putting Africa on the Quantum Map
Dr. Tabiri’s current focus is on quantum science and technology, a rapidly evolving field with transformative potential in areas like medicine, cybersecurity, and environmental solutions. She played a pivotal role in Ghana’s push to have 2025 declared the United Nations International Year of Quantum Science and Technology.
Determined to introduce quantum science to African youth, Dr. Tabiri plans to launch a “quantum road show,” bringing this cutting-edge field to classrooms across the continent. She also recently organized a quantum computing course for secondary school girls and is preparing to host a “Quantum Hackathon” in collaboration with UNESCO.
Building Africa’s Workforce for the Future
Dr. Tabiri’s work aligns with Africa’s broader need to equip its young, fast-growing population with skills for the 21st century. By positioning African students at the forefront of quantum innovation, she hopes to ensure they are prepared to lead in global technological revolutions.
“We want young people to start building relevant skills early,” says Dr. Tabiri. “It’s urgent that we position our youth for this next big revolution.”
With her groundbreaking achievements and tireless advocacy, Dr. Tabiri continues to redefine what is possible for African women in mathematics and beyond. Her story is not only one of personal triumph but also a call to action for the next generation of leaders in science and technology.
