As the Centre of Excellence in Mathematical and Statistical Sciences (CoE-MaSS) enters its final recognition cycle, a bold new chapter is unfolding. Building on nearly two decades of excellence, CoE-MaSS is joining forces with the National Graduate Academy for Mathematical and Statistical Sciences (NGA(MaSS)) to form the Institute for Mathematical Sciences and Applications (IMSA) — a dynamic national entity that will drive research, innovation, and advanced education in the mathematical sciences.

IMSA unites a powerful network of South Africa’s 26 public universities under one visionary banner. Together, these institutions will nurture the next generation of mathematical scientists, advance cutting-edge research (from the fundamental to the applied), and strengthen the role of mathematics as a cornerstone of national development.

Guided by the Department of Higher Education and Training and the Department of Science, Technology and Innovation, IMSA represents a new era for the mathematical sciences — one where collaboration, creativity, and impact converge to address South Africa’s 21st-century challenges.

A number of strategic projects will be undertaken by IMSA.  These will be deliberate interventions aimed at a coordinated and strategic response to emerging opportunities or addressing systemic challenges across the South African mathematical sciences research and training landscape.  The four identified projects will need sustained and dedicated support over an extended period over the coming years:

• Empowering historically disadvantaged institutions
• Growing the next generation of early career mathematical scientists
• Building women in mathematical sciences
• Increasing the number of black mathematical scientists