NUST hosts international math and statistical sciences conference

The Namibia University of Science and Technology (NUST) hosted a two-day mathematical and statistical science conference on Monday and Tuesday that attracted participants from around the world.

The theme of the conference was 'towards multi-disciplinary problem-solving research advancements'.

The conference hosted participants from Namibia as well as Botswana, Congo, Ethiopia, Kenya, Nigeria, India, Poland, Portugal, Russia, Senegal, and South Africa, and looked at 103 academic papers submitted by more than 200 collaborating authors representing 12 different countries.

"The first International Conference on Mathematical and Statistical Sciences (ICMSS-1) is a two-day hybrid (blended) international conference organised by the department of mathematics, statistics and actuarial science. The aim is to physically and virtually bring together researchers, scientists and educators in mathematical and statistical sciences from around the world to share their research contributions and ongoing projects in diverse applications of mathematical and statistical sciences," the university stated.Solutions for all

The research papers looked at, among other things, unique solutions to multi-dimensional global challenges through mathematical and statistical sciences, Dr Erold Naomab, NUST vice chancellor, said.

"Together we will unravel the secrets of the universe, illuminate the hidden connections that bind us, and shape a future where mathematical and statistical sciences continue to thrive."

Naomab highlighted that mathematics and statistics offer various solutions and strategies to assist in unravelling the unanswered questions behind the global Covid-19 pandemic.

Furthermore, mathematics and statistics are needed to predict potential global disasters, like climate change and disasters in the global economy.

Solving the puzzle with science

Dr Reinhold Kamati, the technical expert at the Bank of Namibia, added the importance of mathematics and statistical sciences in policymaking.

"As a country, we need mathematics and statistical modelling to make sure our policy designs have the biggest impact on economic growth, living standards, poverty and unemployment reduction," he said, adding that math provides "hope that every problem has a solution."

Dennis Zaire from the Konrad-Adenauer-Stiftung (KAS) said the organisation is a "firm believer that advancement in science and technology increases the employment possibilities for youth and women within science and technology."