There are journeys shaped by chance and then there are journeys shaped by purpose. For Ounimborbitibou Djabon, a bright and determined student from Togo, mathematics has always felt like a calling; one that grew louder with every challenge he faced. Long before arriving at AIMS Ghana, Djabon’s path had already been shaped by years of dedication to mathematics. His journey began in primary school, where a challenging setback became a defining moment. After repeating his second year, his mother shared words that would stay with him forever; “Those who rise after every fall find reasons to smile; those who stop trying find only regrets”. It was a simple sentence, but for Djabon, it awakened a fire; an insistence not just to succeed, but to understand the world through the language of mathematics.
Inspired by this early lesson, he continued to grow academically, eventually pursuing a Bachelors and completing a Master’s degree in Theoretical Physics at the University of Lomé before taking the next step in his journey at AIMS Ghana. Arriving at AIMS Ghana felt like stepping into a new universe of possibility. He describes his experience so far as a whirlwind of excitement, challenge and transformation. “AIMS Ghana has changed the way I see Mathematics and Science,” he reflects. Courses like Mathematical Problem Solving stretched him in unexpected ways. Some topics were so intricate that even when the lecturer assigned an exercise, no one in the class could complete it. Instead of discouraging him, this level of difficulty fueled his curiosity and strengthened his resolve. Then came Physical Problem Solving; he shared, “a course that made me smile throughout the entire block.” With his background in physics, it felt like a joyful return to familiar ground. Yet even in the comfort of familiarity, AIMS Ghana pushed him to think deeper. The constant flow of assignments, discussions and fresh perspectives helped him develop a more holistic understanding of the mathematical foundations he had unknowingly relied on for years. “It changed my view and thinking of math and physics. Now I understand the mathematical basis behind so many things I previously used physics for,” he says with pride.
This shift in perspective is shaping more than his academic confidence; it is shaping his future. Djabon hopes to pursue a PhD in Quantum Computing and eventually become a professor. His long-term dream is rooted in purpose: to contribute to innovation in Africa by tackling challenges; including language barriers; that hinder progress. Armed with the problem-solving mindset AIMS is nurturing in him, he believes he can face any obstacle that lies ahead.
“So far, on my journey at AIMS Ghana, I am gaining problem-solving skills which I am certain I can use to overcome any obstacles,” he says. And with that determination, Djabon’s journey is only beginning; one equation, one idea and one breakthrough at a time.
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