A Warm Welcome to a Growing Community
Stellenbosch University’s Deputy Vice-Chancellor for Research, Innovation and Postgraduate Studies, Professor Cebisa Moyo, opened the Dynamical Systems Theory and Modelling with AI Workshop with energy and purpose. Speaking to participants from South Africa, Thailand, Greece and beyond, she highlighted the importance of bringing mathematicians, physicists, engineers and computer scientists into one space to collaborate.
Why This Workshop Matters
Professor Moyo emphasised that dynamical systems and differential equations lie at the heart of how we model the real world from waves and ecosystems to financial systems, epidemics and neural networks. She noted that the workshop’s programme bridges classical mathematical methods, like Lie symmetries, with modern AI and machine learning, reflecting Stellenbosch University’s growing strength in both fields.
Building Research That Makes an Impact
She encouraged students and researchers to think deeply about the value and purpose behind their work:
“Why are you doing what you’re doing? What knowledge are you adding?”
Her message was clear, impactful research comes from curiosity, collaboration and strong international partnerships.
Professor Moyo further celebrated the expanding community working on symmetries, differential equations and mathematical modelling at Stellenbosch. She acknowledged the organisers, postdoctoral fellows, international speakers and visiting scholars who make this possible.
A Call to Connect and Collaborate
Closing her remarks, she invited attendees to network, ask bold questions and enjoy their time in Stellenbosch:
“Make it worthwhile,” she said, a fitting start to a workshop built on shared ideas, curiosity and discovery
