South Africa has a declining number of matriculants writing maths and science exams, and some schools have phased out these subjects altogether due to low uptake by pupils. There has been an increase in no-science schools from 512 in 2013 to 781 in 2021. Investing in specialist maths and science schools can help to grow the skills needed for the future of the economy. Why are maths and science schools an effective investment in education and what are some examples of successful maths and science schools and programmes?
The importance of focused education in maths and science
South Africa is grappling with a shortage of highly qualified teachers who can motivate pupils to persevere with maths and science. However, the shortage must be addressed as the country urgently needs scarce skills in Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths (STEM) to unlock new opportunities and increase economic growth. Without these skills, it risks being left behind as other countries progress with their Fourth Industrial Revolution (41R) initiatives.
For example, the Southern African Development Community (SADC) will require 2.5 million more engineers in the coming years to meet its development needs, but a shortage of graduates is robbing the region of its potential.
According to the World Bank, interventions in sub-Saharan Africa that support maths and science include raising the status of maths and STEM education to a national priority, improving teacher training, supporting practising teachers, providing more and better textbooks, supporting teachers with technology, supporting student self-learning through technology, emphasising that maths is not just a subject for boys, and changing attitudes towards the subject.
Schools that focus specifically on maths and science skills can nurture talented learners more effectively through attracting highly skilled maths and science teachers, adopting a STEM-focused curriculum, ensuring modern infrastructure, and building partnerships with universities and companies.
Engen Maths and Science Schools (EMSS)
The Engen Maths and Science Schools programme supports ten schools across South Africa, and has run for more than 30 years. It offers grade 10 to 12 learners at underprivileged schools free tuition in maths, science, and English, and supports schools with modern science and computer laboratories.
In 2022, 64% of the 429 EMSS learners attained bachelor passes, despite Covid-19 lockdowns, disruptions, and the anxiety of social unrest.
Midlands Community College
The Midlands Community College’s Upgrading Maths and Science programme offers grade 12 pupils a chance to upgrade their results so they can be accepted into tertiary education course of their choice.
Since 1999, more than 1 300 pupils have passed through the programme and more than 85% have secured tertiary placements every year.
Pupils are all bursary recipients and receive meals and accommodation for the nine-month duration of the programme.
Corporate partnerships include an internship programme with FirstRand, and company sponsors include AECI Community Education and Development Trust, Nedbank Private Wealth, and Growthpoint Properties.
LEAP Science and Maths Schools
LEAP schools offer a multi-faceted approach to education, providing maths and science-focused education to economically disadvantaged students in grades 8 to 12.
Tutors emphasise both academic achievement and personal growth – a formula that is clearly effective as their grade 12 pupils achieved an average 93% pass rate. More than 70% of graduates went on to pursue their tertiary studies.
Outside of the LEAP Learning Centre itself, tutors offer their services at ten10 feeder schools throughout greater Cape Town. Add-ons include extra lessons on a Saturday, together with maths, science and leadership camps.
Their funding partners include Old Mutual, Rand Merchant Bank, Optima Trust, and AECI.
Anton Lembede Mathematics, Sciences and Technology Academy
The Anton Lembede MST Academy opened in KwaZulu-Natal in January 2021, with the intake of a group of grade 8 learners. Since then, further grades have been phased in, with the academy focusing on digital education and a hybrid teaching model that is aided by an investment in HUAWEI IdeaHub products.
The academy, which has 20 classrooms and will eventually be able to accommodate as many as 600 learners, has a library, three science labs and three computer labs. The KwaZulu-Natal Department of Education offers bursaries to pupils from rural communities, and student accommodation is also provided.
The Cape Academy of Mathematics, Science and Technology
Established by the Western Cape Education Department (WCED), the Cape Academy of Mathematics, Science and Technology aims to provide specialised schooling for grade 8-12 learners with the potential to excel in their Senior Certificate exams.
Opened in 2004, the Academy accepts both day learners and boarders, with an emphasis on those from previously disadvantaged communities. It offers a range of subjects, including robotics, coding, gaming and aerospace.
