68th Annual SAMS Congress held at NMU
The 68th Annual Congress of the South African Mathematical Society (SAMS) was held from 2–5 December 2025 at the Summerstrand South Campus of Nelson Mandela University in Gqeberha.
The congress brought together mathematicians from across South Africa, along with some international participants, to share recent research developments and strengthen professional networks across mathematical disciplines.
The congress was organised by a local committee led by Prof Martin Weigt, with colleagues Dr Willard Mbava, Dr Christiaan Pretorius, Dr Mulalo Makhuva, Ms Christa Esterhuizen, and Mr Heinrich Smith. The event attracted over 200 participants, including 84 postgraduate students and postdoctoral researchers, highlighting the strong engagement of emerging scholars in the mathematical sciences.
The scientific programme featured eight plenary lectures, including contributions from early-career and mid-career mathematicians, as well as invited speakers from leading South African and international institutions. These talks showcased cutting-edge research across a wide range of mathematical fields and provided valuable insight into current and future directions in the discipline.
Beyond the plenary programme, the congress included specialised sessions organised by SAMS divisions, such as a Women in Mathematics session and a special session on IMSA, led by Prof Loyiso Nongxa. The SAMS Annual General Meeting also took place during the congress, reinforcing the event’s role in shaping the strategic direction of the mathematical community in South Africa.
A highlight of the social programme was the congress dinner held on 4 December, where Prof Louis Labuschagne of North-West University was awarded the prestigious SAMS Award for Research Distinction, recognising his outstanding contributions to the field of mathematics.
The congress provided a platform for postgraduate students to present their work, engage with senior researchers, and build professional networks – key experiences that support their development as future academics and professionals in the mathematical sciences. Overall, the event reinforced the vitality of the South African mathematical community and highlighted the value of continued collaboration and support across institutions.
