In May, ICIAM President Wil Schilders participated in two major international events that underscored the importance of mathematics in fostering innovation, sustainability, and the advancement of early-career researchers.
On May 12, he moderated a panel discussion during the online conference of the International Association for General Funding (IAGF), entitled “Navigating funding pathways, opportunities and insights for early-stage researchers”. The session brought together global stakeholders to share perspectives and strategies for supporting emerging scientists in their academic and professional journeys.
More details are available at: https://sites.dmi.uns.ac.rs/gfws2025/
Later that same week, Schilders delivered a keynote lecture at the Mega Maths Festival in Cape Town, South Africa. His talk, “Mathematics: A Catalyst for National Prosperity and Sustainable Innovation”, emphasized the power of mathematics to drive socio-economic development. The festival welcomed over 550 participants and featured the presence of South Africa’s Minister of Higher Education, Dr. Nobuhle Nkabane, her director-general, and other senior officials from the ministry, all of whom attended the event on Wednesday. Also in attendance was former Deputy President of South Africa, Phumzile Mlambo-Ngcuka.
More information can be found at: https://www.megamaths.org/
Organized under the theme “Mathematics – South Africa’s 13th language” — a reference to the country’s 12 officially recognized languages — the festival was coordinated by, among others, Professor Loyiso Nongxa, former Vice-President of the International Mathematical Union (IMU).
Through these engagements, ICIAM continues to promote applied mathematics as a vital tool for global progress, equity, and scientific innovation.