The Canadian Embassy in Senegal and the African Institute for Mathematical Sciences – Next Einstein Initiative (AIMS-NEI) held an industry partnership event on Oct 26. The event was hosted by Her Excellency Lise Filiatrault, Canadian Ambassador in Senegal,  at her Official Residence in Dakar. The showcase came to be with the support of the Government of Senegal, Global Affairs Canada, the Toronto-based MasterCard Foundation and the Ottawa-based International Development Research Centre (IDRC).

“Africa needs local talent and knowledge for accelerated development,” Filiatrault said. “Canada is proud to support AIMS centres across Africa, including in Senegal. Investing in human capital, particularly in talented women scientists, makes the difference.”

The event brought industry partners and AIMS together to focus on the skills that graduates can offer to business. Relationship building between AIMS and industry increases internship and employment opportunities for students and graduates.

“The unique integrated learning model equips students in two ways. First, at the academic level, where they study the concepts, and second at the applied level where they get work experience through internships,” said Dr. Dorothy Nyambi, AIMS Executive VP. “We are pleased to collaborate with industry to train African youth to innovate.”

Prof. Aminata Sall Diallo, representative of Dr. Mary Teuw Niane, Senegal’s Minister of Higher Education, Research and Innovation, attended as well.

Canada also officially acknowledged the contributions of the Government of Senegal, universities and research centers, to AIMS Senegal’s success.