Dr. Uma Shivayogimath, a Highler Level Mathematics teacher for the IBDP program at DAIS, has devoted her life to mathematics and forms an integral part of the school community. Now nearing her retirement age, she has been teaching since she completed her PhD in applied mathematics at the Maulana Azad College of engineering, Regional Engineering College. Dr. Shivayogimath began her journey as a woman in science at high school itself, although she did not have any specific plans to teach. Due to a natural interest in math and science, she gravitated towards studying physics, chemistry and mathematics for her B.Sc. from the Maharani Laxmi Bai Girls College, and then later mathematics for her M.Sc. from the Motilal Vigyaan Mahavidyalaya, although she possessed an equal inclination for both math and physics. All three of her degrees fall under the Barkatullah University of Bhopal. While working on her PhD, she undertook a teaching assignment, and this along with several instances when she taught mathematics to her brother’s friends encouraged her to take up the profession.

Growing up, Dr. Shivayogimath lived in a nuclear family with her parents and four siblings, but her parents always emphasized the value of education, providing equal opportunity to all the children. “My father always said that education is the most important aspect of life, and he was very encouraging.” The competitive and enriching environment around her as well as all the achievements of the feminine figures around her constantly inspired her to work her hardest in order to achieve success. Now at the cusp of retirement, her plans for the future entail working at a more relaxed pace. She hopes to engage in other interests that she could not initially pursue due to her career responsibilities. She further plans to coach smaller groups of children and use her knowledge and insights to write books.

Dr. Shivayogimath recognises the value women bring to every field they pursue. Although aware of them, she never faced many stereotypes herself and received respect from all her colleagues in the workplace. In her teaching experience, she has observed confidence, ambition, intelligence, and dedication in countless young girls and she hopes to see them succeed in their lives. To all those pursuing the sciences, Dr. Shivayogimath advises you to always exploit your potential and pursue your interests. “It is imperative to acknowledge your strengths regardless of what society tells you. Remain organised and focused, and work hard.”