Mathematics builds bridges: Braunschweig TU supports Cameroonian scientists

Mathematics builds bridges: Braunschweig TU supports Cameroonian scientists

In a new approach to promoting mathematical skills in Africa, scientists from the Technical University of Braunschweig, in collaboration with the University of Douala, organized a two-week summer school in Douala, Cameroon. The event took place from September 8th to 19th, 2025 and was aimed at students and doctoral candidates from Cameroon and other Central African countries. The summer school focused on the application of modern mathematical tools in mechanics.

The project idea emerged from the long-standing connection between the TU Braunschweig and Dr. Christian Kouam, a former student at Braunschweig University. Under the direction of Dr. Jan Linxweiler, Dr. Jan-Philipp Thiele, Dr.-Ing. Gabriel David, Katja Tüting and Professor Dirk Langemann, around 35 Master and PhD students were actively involved in the courses. The initiators received support from the BMFTR and the CIMPA (Centre International de Mathématiques pures et appliquées).

Topics and challenges

Topics covered included research software engineering, coastal engineering and mathematical modeling. The participants had the opportunity not only to learn from the German experts, but also to exchange ideas with each other. Scientists from Douala were also present to observe the innovative teaching methods of their colleagues from Germany.

The meetings also included discussions about possible research stays and doctoral positions in Europe. Around 20 colleagues from Cameroon were present who were interested in long-term collaboration. Participants reported on the challenges of everyday university life in Douala, such as limited availability of water and WiFi, power outages and difficult communication during the rainy season. “Flexibility is key,” said one participant. “Delays of two hours are commonplace here.”

An intercultural exchange

Another interesting aspect of the summer school was the intercultural exchange about different hierarchies and processes. Among other things, the different etiquette during coffee breaks was discussed. Furthermore, the cultural belief in witchcraft was addressed, with some participants seeking a scientific explanation for certain phenomena.

The Summer School intends to establish new long-term collaborations in research and teaching. The overall goal is to advance mathematical modeling in engineering in Africa and to build an Africa-Germany research network. This commitment is part of a broader initiative to strengthen scientific cooperation between Europe and Africa in the fields of mathematics and engineering, such as digiface.org reported.