The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) is lending its support towards the development of Mathematics in the region by partnering with the African Academy of Science, African Mathematical Union and UNESCO in the symposium with the title “Current Research Trends in Mathematical Sciences and Applications” which is taking place in Abuja, Nigeria from the 17^th to 20^th May, 2016.

In his remarks at the opening ceremony, the ECOWAS Commissioner for Education, Science and Culture, Dr. Hamidou Boly, who was represented by Professor Abdoulaye Maga, the Director, Education, Culture, Science & Technology stated that the aim of the symposium is to eventually help reframe national and regional policies on the subject of mathematics. He added that discussions at the symposium will chart an effective course for further propagation of current developments in the mathematical science for the overall development of Africa.

The Symposium will amongst other things, provide a forum for the younger generation of Mathematical Scientists to interact with and be inspired by more established mathematicians and improve on current mentor-mentee relationships.

Professor Adewale Roland T. Solarin, CEO, Nigerian Mathematical Centre, and the President, African Mathematical Union (AMU) & UNESCO Chair on Mathematics highlighted during the opening ceremony that the symposium will review and improve on existing networks on the continent as well as create new ones in collaboration with international partners.

The opening ceremony was also attended by the President African Academy of Science (AAS), Professor Aderemi Kuku, the representatives of the Executive Secretary- National Universities Commission, Prof Julius A.Okojie, representative of the Minister of Education as well as partners and keynote speakers from the International Scientific Community.