University of Venda

Mathematics can be described as a science that studies quantitative relationships and space formations in the world we live in. The basic concepts of mathematics needed for describing natural processes are premised on the concept of a number and that of a function. Over many years mathematics has evolved and split mainly into two identifiable areas of pure mathematics and applied mathematics. The department specializes in both areas and hence its name is derived from this understanding. Today, mathematics is used as a useful tool in many fields throughout the world which include engineering, natural sciences, medicine and social sciences. The department endeavours to train students in mathematics and its applications.

The department offers a variety of courses in pure and applied mathematics that run concurrently with other courses either in physics or chemistry or statistics to form learning programmes. The department also offers post graduate training in pure and applied mathematics at Honours, Masters and PhD levels, and service mathematics to other schools of the university. The research interests for the staff and post graduate students in the department are in the areas of number theory, algebra, graph theory, fluid mechanics, differential equations, financial mathematics and epidemiological modeling.

Mandate

The Department of Mathematics and Applied Mathematics has been entrusted with the crucial task of training students from disadvantaged communities in mathematics and its applications.
The Department endeavours to initiate and pursue research activities of national and international significance.
The Department endeavours to initiate and participate in interdisciplinary research in identified niche areas for enrichment of postgraduate training.

Vision

To strive to contribute to the scientific, technological and social upliftment of the communities that the university serves.

Mission

The Department of Mathematics and Applied Mathematics commits itself to participate in the university’s learning and teaching programmes through rendering the following services:

relevant mathematics programmes that conform with its vision in line with the vision of the university
enabling, and caring learning and teaching environment to students from diverse backgrounds
development of a culture that cultivates and promotes intellectual curiosity and a diversity of ideas
mathematical based research and knowledge development guided by quality and vigour
community development programmes