Dr. Angela Tabiri Makes History as First African to Win The Big Internet Math Off

Known as the “Maths Queen” of Ghana, Dr. Angela Tabiri has become a trailblazer in mathematics and quantum science, inspiring countless young African women to pursue careers in fields traditionally dominated by men.

In 2024, Dr. Tabiri became the first African to win The Big Internet Math Off, an international competition recognising engaging and innovative mathematical educators.

Her groundbreaking win marks a significant milestone for African women in mathematics, a field where female representation has historically been scarce.

 

Born in Ashaiman, a densely populated neighbourhood in Tema, Ghana, Dr. Tabiri’s path to success was far from conventional. Growing up in a noisy household with five sisters, she sought refuge at her local youth community centre to study. Initially aspiring to study business administration, she ended up enrolling in mathematics and economics due to her grades—an unexpected turn she now describes as a “blessing in disguise.”

Her passion for mathematics blossomed during her PhD studies at Glasgow University in Scotland, where she specialised in quantum algebra. A pivotal moment came when she watched the film Hidden Figures, which tells the story of Black women mathematicians at NASA.

Dr. Tabiri drew inspiration from Katherine Johnson, whose groundbreaking contributions to space exploration reinforced the value of perseverance and the eventual recognition of hard work.

Dr. Tabiri serves as the academic manager for the Girls in Mathematical Sciences Programme (GMSP), a mentoring initiative by the African Institute for Mathematical Sciences (AIMS) Ghana.

 

Launched in 2020, GMSP aims to bridge the gender gap in STEM fields by nurturing young girls’ interest in mathematics.

She also founded FemAfricMaths, a non-profit organisation that provides lessons to high school students, especially those from underserved communities. Through this initiative, she conducts online and in-person sessions and amplifies the voices of female mathematicians worldwide via social media.

Her efforts are critical in a context where societal perceptions often discourage women from pursuing mathematics, branding it as a “boy’s subject.” Dr. Tabiri challenges these stereotypes by creating role models for young girls and fostering a supportive community.

Dr. Tabiri’s research focuses on quantum, or non-commutative, algebra, a branch of mathematics essential for developing quantum science and technology. She is a key advocate for positioning Africa at the forefront of this scientific revolution.

In 2024, Ghana successfully championed a UN resolution—backed by Mexico—to declare 2025 as the International Year of Quantum Science and Technology, marking the centenary of quantum mechanics. This move underscores Ghana’s commitment to advancing this transformative field.

To spark early interest, Dr. Tabiri plans to launch a “quantum roadshow,” introducing schoolchildren to quantum science concepts and their real-world applications.

She has already co-organised a quantum computing course for secondary school girls and is set to host a Quantum Hackathon in July 2025, in partnership with UNESCO.

This initiative will bring together postgraduate students from across Africa to tackle real-world challenges using quantum skills, focusing on urgent global issues like medicine, food security, and cybersecurity.

With Africa projected to have the world’s largest workforce by 2040, Dr. Tabiri emphasises the need for the continent’s youth to acquire skills relevant to the rapidly evolving global landscape.

 

“It’s very urgent that we position our youth for this next big revolution,” she says. “Quantum science holds immense potential, and Africa must not be left behind.”

Through her work in education, advocacy, and groundbreaking research, Dr. Angela Tabiri is reshaping the narrative for African women in mathematics and science, proving that the future of STEM in Africa is brighter than ever.