Outstanding staff members and postgraduate students from the Department of Mathematics and Applied Mathematics at Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU) – Prof Maggie Aphane, Kelebogile Medupe, Matlhatsi Ngwepe, Koketso Malebana, Sindiswa Mnguni, Tumiso Kekana, Lesego Masilela, and Princess Shiba – proudly represented the university at the inaugural MegaMaths Festival held recently at the University of the Western Cape (UWC).
Hosted by the Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET) in partnership with UWC and the African Institute for Mathematical Sciences (AIMS South Africa), the festival was themed “Mathematics: Our 13th National Language” and aimed to strengthen mathematics teaching, learning, and research across the educational ecosystem — from schools to universities and industry.
“It was an honour to be selected. I felt both excitement and responsibility,” said Ngwepe, lecturer. “We showcased the passion, creativity, and commitment of our department while connecting with like-minded individuals from across the country.”
The event opened with a gala dinner and a warm welcome from the UWC Vice-Chancellor, setting the tone for what would be a transformative week of learning and collaboration. “From meaningful discussions to dancing and music — it reminded us that there is joy and life even in mathematics,” reflected Ngwepe.
Key sessions focused on practical and inclusive approaches to teaching mathematics. “A keynote speaker demonstrated how simple tools like blank paper can help students visualise concepts like parallel and perpendicular lines. It reminded us that maths must be taught beyond words — through experience and application,” said Malebane, an MSc student.
The festival also highlighted how mathematics research intersects with real-world issues. Topics such as graph theory, topology, inclusive education, and digital tools in learning were explored. Lecturer, Kekana, whose research focuses on complex-valued topological indices, found the graph theory discussions especially meaningful. “They not only validated my work but also opened possibilities for future collaborations,” he said.
As women in a male-dominated field, Medupe and Ngwepe both emphasised how empowering the festival was. “Events like these break stereotypes and reaffirm that women have a critical role to play in the mathematical sciences,” Ngwepe shared.
Another powerful highlight was the focus on African mathematical heritage — including indigenous counting systems, beadwork, and cultural patterns — as tools for more relevant and inclusive mathematics teaching. “It was a reminder that maths is not foreign to African communities; it has always been part of our way of understanding the world,” said Malebane.
While networking mainly involved educators and students, the SMU team connected with organisations such as Capitec Foundation, Vodacom Foundation, and Zenex Foundation, opening doors for outreach and mentorship initiatives that bridge school and university-level mathematics.
Reflecting on the experience, Shiba concluded: “Mathematics is for everyone. It’s a tool for empowerment, and we need to make it accessible, engaging, and culturally relevant.”
The team plans to present their insights to colleagues at SMU and continue building partnerships that support curriculum transformation, learner support, and community-based outreach. “This is just the beginning,” they agreed. “We’re excited to help shape the future of mathematics in South Africa — one student, one breakthrough at a time.”
By Tumelo Moila
