17 August 2005

South Africa is to increase the number of schools in the country that teach mathematics, science and technology from 102 to 529 in 2006.

The expansion strategy is a bid to produce 50 000 grade 12 students in these subjects by 2008.

There are currently 102 such schools in the country which form part of the Dinaledi programme - a programme launched as a national strategy in 2001 for selected schools that offer maths and science.

'Dramatic' improvement
The department says that over the last three years, these schools have increased learner participation in mathematics and physical science by over 10 percent and improved their performance "dramatically".

In 2003, 58% of grade 12 learners who wrote mathematics passed, with 11% passing at higher grade; 80% who wrote physical science passed, with 76% passing at higher grade.

According to departmental spokesperson John Mojapelo, there are concerns about the "slight" decrease in enrolment for the two subjects, despite the improved performance in these subjects.

"The total number of candidates who wrote in 2003 was 1 919 and 2 392 last year. 36 555 wrote in Standard Grade in 2003 and 37 566 the following year.

"Both subjects are essential for students who intend to study, among other professions, medicine, sciences and engineering," Mojapelo said.

The expansion strategy seeks to empower under-qualified and unqualified mathematics and physical sciences teachers.

Support package
This will be done by providing a "package of support" to schools focusing on teacher appointments, development and support.

Print material, slides and demonstrations, support material and equipment on mathematics and physical science will be provided to each participating school.

Every grade 11 and 12 learner in participating schools will also get a calculator.

Laboratory equipment
In addition, the department will provide a peer-to-peer network to each school without ICT infrastructure consisting of three refurbished computers, along with support material for mathematics and physical science.

Schools without laboratories are to be provided with science laboratory equipment.

Source: BuaNews

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