In a recent meeting hosted by York University, representatives from the African Institute for Mathematical Sciences (AIMS) Network, and York University gathered to discuss the AIMS model and explore opportunities to strengthen their collaborative efforts. The event brought together key faculty members from York University, including the President and Vice-chancellor Prof. Rhonda Lenton, Amir Asif, Vice-President of Research & Innovation; Prof. Huaiping Zhu, York Research Chair, Faculty of Science; Prof. Jane Marie Heffernan, President of the Society for Mathematical Biology; Prof. Kiemute Oyibo, Prof. Alvine Boaye Belle, and Prof. Marin Litoiu from the Lassonde School of Engineering; Prof. Christo El Morr from the Faculty of Health; Prof. Godfred Boateng, Canada Research Chair, Faculty of Health, Vinitha Gengatharan, AVP Global Engagement, Prof. Solomon Boakye-Yiadom, Lassonde School of Engineering and Member, Connected Minds, Prof. Jianhong Wu, University Distinguished Professor and Co-Director, Y-EMERGE, Prof. James Elder, Leadership Committee, Connected Minds, Prof. Woldegebriel Assefa Woldegerima, Faculty of Science, Prof. Jude Dzevela Kong, Faculty of Science, and founding director of the Africa-Canada Artificial Intelligence and Data Innovation Consortium (ACADIC), Prof. Joel Zylberberg, Canada Research Chair, Faculty of Science and Member, Connected Minds, Herb Goltz, Partnerships Manager, Connected Minds, Dr. Jerusha Lederman, Director, Research & Partnerships, Faculty of Science, Leila Daddoust, Institute Coordinator, Y-EMERGE, as well as Skandha Sunderasen, Associate Director, Global Engagement and Strategic Initiatives, York International.
The AIMS delegation was led by Prof. Sam Yala and Dr. Prince Osei together with Dr. Claire David. During the meeting, both institutions shared an overview of their respective faculties and existing partnerships, aiming to enhance future collaborative opportunities. The discussions highlighted the potential for joint research initiatives and academic exchanges, reinforcing the commitment of both AIMS and York University to advancing mathematical sciences and interdisciplinary research across Africa and beyond.