Nicolas Mmako, CSI Consultant at Investec, asserts that Investec’s aim is to empower people through education, from high-school level through to tertiary level. One of the company’s objectives is to facilitate an increase in the number of learners who matriculate with a decent pass in English, maths and science.
End-of-year results are not a true reflection of the potential learners have – they experience hindrances like over-crowded classrooms, inadequately qualified teachers, a lack of textbooks and support materials, and more. In partnership with Kutlwanong Centre for Maths, Science and Technology, Investec is rolling out extra maths and science lessons from Grade 10-12 learners in both rural and township schools. Mmako explains the strategy Investec follows to give learners the best possible chance of success.
What are the advantages?
- Learners who do well in maths and science tend to do better in other subjects.
- They have more career choice and access to a greater number of professions.
- Learners who do well have a higher chance of attracting funding for tertiary education.
Investec’s other core aim – in partnership with the Department of Basic Education and the Independent Schools Association of South Africa – is to produce a new breed of math and science teacher. Youngsters who are competent in maths and science are placed in ISASA schools while they are busy with their tertiary studies so they can be mentored by experienced teachers.