Maths for Real-World Problems Earns Honours Student Maryam Babangida Scholarship

BY: .

Inspired by the story of Alan Turing in the 2014 movie The Imitation Game, and a high school science expo project, a mathematics student has distinguished herself as the best female student proceeding from undergraduate to honours studies at UKZN.

The student, Ms Nokwanda Biyase, said the expo had involved showing how mathematics could be used to tackle practical problems.

Receiving the Maryam Babangida Scholarship for her efforts is not only a financial relief, but a source of motivation and encouragement for her and her family.

The award, named after Dr Maryam Babangida in recognition and honour of her contributions to improving the living conditions of Nigerian women, is sponsored by an anonymous Nigerian donor.

Enrolling at UKZN was a clear choice for Biyase, given the University’s strong reputation in the sciences and the fact that it was close to her home. The diverse environment at the Institution has enabled her to learn from people from different racial, cultural and linguistic backgrounds and nurtured her social and academic growth.

Her enjoyment of mathematics was encouraged through a science expo project in her Grade 11 year titled: ‘Scintillating Science in The World of Mathematics’, which Biyase said deepened her curiosity and love for problem-solving.

Biyase sees this as only the start of her academic journey, as she hopes to pursue her master’s degree in 2027 and work towards a PhD in the topology branch of pure mathematics. She also aims to gain professional experience first, ideally through a graduate programme or an internship at a financial institution.

She counteracts the demands of her studies with time spent reading novels and singing, pursuits which promote relaxation and improved language skills as well as improved mood and emotional balance.

Biyase thanked her family and friends for their support and encouragement throughout her studies, her lecturers for being outstanding teachers, and the donor of the scholarship, saying their generosity had made a huge difference in her educational journey for which she was truly thankful.

Words: Christine Cuénod

Photograph: Andile Ndlovu