Theophilus Kwofie, a PhD candidate in Applied Mathematics and a Graduate Teaching Associate at Arizona State University, stands as an inspiring figure in the field of mathematical education and research, both in Ghana and globally. Known for his innovative approaches to teaching and his groundbreaking research in applied mathematics, Theophilus has dedicated his life to empowering students and addressing societal challenges through the lens of mathematics.

Theophilus’ research focuses on utilizing advanced mathematical and statistical modelling approaches to investigate the transmission dynamics of infectious diseases. He has also developed models addressing critical public health challenges, including crime dynamics, obesity, and substance abuse, showcasing the versatility of mathematical frameworks in understanding and tackling complex societal issues.

In addition to his academic and research pursuits, Theophilus currently serves as the Treasurer for the Society for Industrial and Applied Mathematics (SIAM), a student chapter at Arizona State University. In this role, he oversees the organization’s financial management, secures sponsorships, and supports the execution of programs that foster collaboration and learning among students and professionals in applied mathematics.

In recognition of his outstanding academic achievements and contributions, Theophilus was honoured with the prestigious 2023 Student Leader (Distinguished Student) Award by the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences at Arizona State University. As one of only 10 students selected from his unit, this award highlights his exceptional academic performance, leadership roles, influential research, and meaningful contributions to the academic community.

MyjoyOnline Interview:

1. MyjoyOnline: Theophilus, congratulations on your award and recognition for both your research and leadership. With your role as Treasurer for SIAM, how do you manage such a demanding workload?

Theophilus Kwofie: Thank you very much. It requires careful time management, discipline, and a genuine passion for what I do. My involvement with SIAM allows me to develop leadership skills and contribute to building a vibrant mathematical community. Balancing my responsibilities as Treasurer, researcher, and teacher is challenging, but it’s also deeply rewarding. I stay motivated by focusing on the impact of my work, whether it’s supporting SIAM initiatives, advancing research, or inspiring students.

2. MyjoyOnline: Your research focuses on addressing critical public health challenges through mathematical modelling. What drives your interest in such diverse areas?

Theophilus Kwofie: My interest stems from a desire to use mathematics as a tool for meaningful change. Infectious diseases, crime, obesity, and substance abuse are pressing issues that impact millions of lives globally, including in Ghana. Mathematics provides a structured and adaptable framework to analyze these problems, predict outcomes, and design interventions. Whether it’s understanding the spread of infectious diseases or evaluating the societal impact of crime, these models empower policymakers with data-driven insights to make informed decisions.

3. MyjoyOnline: What contributions has your research made to Ghana and the world beyond?

Theophilus Kwofie: My research has had a profound impact both in Ghana and internationally. In Ghana, my work during the COVID-19 pandemic provided crucial insights into the effectiveness of interventions such as testing and isolation, particularly in resource-constrained settings. These findings helped shape public health strategies during a critical period. Beyond Ghana, my research on crime dynamics addresses global challenges by developing mathematical frameworks that can be adapted to different societal contexts. My overarching goal is to bridge the gap between theoretical research and real-world applications, ensuring that my work informs policies and contributes meaningfully to public health and social well-being worldwide.

4. MyjoyOnline: How does your role as Treasurer for SIAM align with your academic and professional goals?

Theophilus Kwofie: Serving as Treasurer for SIAM has been a great opportunity to combine my organizational and financial management skills with my passion for mathematics. By securing funding and managing budgets for programs, I’ve helped create opportunities for students and professionals to engage in meaningful collaborations and learning experiences. This role has also allowed me to promote the practical applications of mathematics, aligning perfectly with my goal of making math accessible and impactful.

5. MyjoyOnline: You’re deeply involved in education, teaching, and mentoring. How has your role as a Graduate Teaching Associate influenced your journey?

Theophilus Kwofie: Teaching is a cornerstone of my journey. As a Graduate Teaching Associate, I’ve taught courses like Calculus for Life Sciences and Precalculus, impacting hundreds of students. It’s incredibly fulfilling to see students develop confidence in math and realize its relevance to their fields. Teaching also keeps me grounded, as it’s a constant reminder of the importance of making complex ideas accessible and relatable. My YouTube channel, @MathProblemSolvers, allows me to reach even more learners globally, bridging gaps in access to quality math education.

6. MyjoyOnline: You’ve founded the Theo Math Problem Solver Foundation to support students in Ghana. What inspired this initiative, and what impact has it had?

Theophilus Kwofie: The foundation was born out of my desire to give back to the community that shaped me. Growing up in Takinta, Ghana, I saw how access to quality education could transform lives. Through the foundation, we provide free math classes, resources, and mentorship to high school students, helping them excel academically and pursue higher education. By collaborating with local educators and international organizations, we’re creating opportunities for students who might otherwise be left behind. It’s been incredibly rewarding to see the positive changes this initiative has brought to my community.

7. MyjoyOnline: What message do you hope to convey to aspiring mathematicians and researchers?

Theophilus Kwofie: Mathematics is not just about numbers and equations—it’s a powerful tool to drive change. I want aspiring mathematicians to see how their skills can address real-world problems, from public health to social justice. By combining curiosity with collaboration, they can create innovative solutions and make a lasting impact. The path may be challenging, but the rewards—both personal and societal—are immeasurable.

MyjoyOnline:

We wish you the very best in your journey, Theophilus, as you continue to inspire and empower through mathematics.

Theophilus Kwofie: Thank you so much.