Introducing The Mpemba Prize for Mathematics
A thesis prize for math in Kenya. Helping inspire students and grow the field of math!
About
Recognition and Inspiration: Bridging the Gap in Academic Achievement
The Mpemba Prize for Mathematics is the first of its kind in Kenya, conceived to address the absence of a national recognition for exceptional mathematical research at the undergraduate level. Through this prize, we seek to motivate students to delve into the depths of mathematical sciences, explore innovative ideas, and contribute meaningful research that could shape the future of mathematics and its application.
The prize honors the spirit of inquiry and perseverance exemplified by Erastus Mpemba. In the 1960s, as a young Tanzanian schoolboy, Erastus Mpemba observed that hot ice cream mix freezes faster than a cold one, a phenomenon that seemingly defied intuition. Despite skepticism and initial dismissal from his teachers and peers, Mpemba persisted in his curiosity, eventually collaborating with a professor of physics to verify his observations. This led to the acknowledgment of what is now known as the Mpemba Effect; a phenomenon yet to be understood by physicists.
The naming of the Mpemba Prize carries with it the legacy of Erastus Mpemba's approach to learning and discovery. It embodies the core philosophy of "taking matters into one's own hands," an essential aspect of the mathematical life. The story of Mpemba resonates deeply with our vision for the prize – we want to inspire and empower mathematics students in Kenya and across Africa to pursue their intellectual curiosities with courage and tenacity.
Just as Mpemba did not let his circumstances or the limitations of his environment deter his pursuit of knowledge, the Mpemba Prize encourages students to transcend perceived barriers. In a region where the pursuit of mathematics might feel like the preserve of developed countries, this prize aims to dispel such notions and ignite a belief in the universal accessibility of mathematics.
By embracing the Mpemba Effect as a metaphor, therefore, the Mpemba prize is not just an award; it is a call to action—a call for young african mathematicians to embrace the potential of their minds and the power of their ideas, shaping their future and that of the continent through the universal language of mathematics. Partnering with the Kenya Mathematical Society (KMS) The Mpemba Prize is offered in partnership with the Kenya Mathematical Society (KMS), a non-political, scientific organization dedicated to promoting the teaching, research, and application of mathematics in Kenya. Founded on principles of cooperation and knowledge sharing, KMS provides a forum for collaboration among mathematicians, scientists, and the public to advance mathematical literacy and awareness. Through workshops, seminars, competitions, and international collaborations, KMS plays a pivotal role in fostering the next generation of mathematicians. This partnership ensures that the prize not only recognizes excellence but also contributes to a vibrant mathematical community in Kenya and beyond. Read more of Mpemba's story here.
The naming of the Mpemba Prize carries with it the legacy of Erastus Mpemba's approach to learning and discovery. It embodies the core philosophy of "taking matters into one's own hands," an essential aspect of the mathematical life. The story of Mpemba resonates deeply with our vision for the prize – we want to inspire and empower mathematics students in Kenya and across Africa to pursue their intellectual curiosities with courage and tenacity.
Just as Mpemba did not let his circumstances or the limitations of his environment deter his pursuit of knowledge, the Mpemba Prize encourages students to transcend perceived barriers. In a region where the pursuit of mathematics might feel like the preserve of developed countries, this prize aims to dispel such notions and ignite a belief in the universal accessibility of mathematics.
By embracing the Mpemba Effect as a metaphor, therefore, the Mpemba prize is not just an award; it is a call to action—a call for young african mathematicians to embrace the potential of their minds and the power of their ideas, shaping their future and that of the continent through the universal language of mathematics. Partnering with the Kenya Mathematical Society (KMS) The Mpemba Prize is offered in partnership with the Kenya Mathematical Society (KMS), a non-political, scientific organization dedicated to promoting the teaching, research, and application of mathematics in Kenya. Founded on principles of cooperation and knowledge sharing, KMS provides a forum for collaboration among mathematicians, scientists, and the public to advance mathematical literacy and awareness. Through workshops, seminars, competitions, and international collaborations, KMS plays a pivotal role in fostering the next generation of mathematicians. This partnership ensures that the prize not only recognizes excellence but also contributes to a vibrant mathematical community in Kenya and beyond. Read more of Mpemba's story here.
Dr. James Katende
Senior Lecturer, University of Nairobi
Dr. Balazs Szendroi
Professor, University of Vienna
Dr. Geoffrey Mboya
Postdoc, University of Oxford
Salash Nabaala
Adjunct Professor, Tallahassee State College
Dr. Beth Kiratu
Mathematician and Secretary, KWIMSA
Dr. Michael Obiero Oyengo
Lecturer, Maseno University
Partners
KMS
KMS