Dr Charles Mbayi with the Principal, Mr Louis van Niekerk

In the words of Nelson Mandela, "Education is the most powerful weapon you can use to change the world." Education is fundamental to development and growth. Growth, development and poverty reduction is dependent on the knowledge and skills acquired. Dr. Charles Mbayi, a lecturer at Pinelands Campus recently graduated with a PhD (Doctor of Philosophy in Mathematics)  from the University of the Western Cape’s Department of Mathematics and Applied Mathematics. His passion for teaching and learning has inspired him to study mathematics.

Dr. Mbayi pursued his tertiary education in his home country, the Democratic Republic of Congo. After obtaining his Bachelor’s degree in Statistic Mathematics and spending ten years as a Mathematics lecturer, he relocated to South Africa.

Once settled in South Africa, Dr. Mbayi obtained his Master’s degree, Mathematics of Finance from the University of Cape Town. He then joined the academic team at the College of Cape Town, Pinelands Campus as a Mathematics lecturer. Dr. Mbayi uses every opportunity to encourage students to be passionate about Mathematics and the application thereof.  

"My passion for mathematics grew during my high school career. Solving math problems gives me a real pleasure as it allows for both critical and relative thinking. I remember when I was in high school, I was always good in mathematics than any other subjects. I enjoy calculations and numbers,” said Dr. Mbayi.