South Africa was placed last in the 2023 Trends in International Mathematics and Science test, highlighting the massive gap in the South African education environment.
According to Dr Adele Cheddie, a physical science teacher at Centennial Schools in Sandton, “this poses serious challenges for various industries as critical skills will become scarce in the next few years”.
“While the test results are reflective of a broader schooling problem, characterised by language barriers, socio-economic imbalances, a lack of resources, and teachers being stretched to their limits, the fact remains that these skills are much-needed if South Africa is to grow its economy and start competing globally,” she added.
Dr Cheddie suggests that South African schools need to reframe their teaching approach when it comes to subjects like maths, science, technology, business studies, entrepreneurship, and engineering. “This will not only boost the number of matriculants who have a sound grasp of the subject matter but also promote the critical thinking and innovative problem-solving skills that they build,” she said.
Rather, a widespread focus on these subjects at school-level can benefit the economy and grow South Africa by:
- Bridging the skills gap: Better maths and science education addresses the shortage of skilled workers despite high unemployment, ensuring a steady supply of qualified professionals.
- Driving technological innovation: Strong maths and science skills prepare students for leading roles in software development, data science, engineering, and telecommunications.
- Enhancing problem-solving: These subjects develop logical reasoning, pattern recognition, and structured thinking, essential for real-world challenges – a focus at Centennial Schools.
- Boosting economic growth: A STEM-proficient workforce drives industrial advancement, entrepreneurship, and job creation, strengthening the economy.
- Improving global competitiveness: Investing in maths and science education supports high-value industries, innovation, and technological progress, keeping countries competitive globally.
- Preparing for high-demand careers: Strong STEM foundations are crucial for industries like renewable energy, healthcare, manufacturing, and AI, ensuring graduates meet evolving needs.
- Increasing efficiency and productivity: Scientific and mathematical thinking promotes precision and efficiency, improving processes and contributing to economic vitality.
- Encouraging entrepreneurship: A solid STEM foundation enables tech-based start-ups, creating jobs, solving challenges, and driving progress.
- Addressing educational disparities: Improving maths and science education reduces gaps in quality and aligns curricula with industry needs, as highlighted by South Africa’s poor TIMSS performance.
- Future-proofing the workforce: As automation and AI grow, professionals with strong analytical and scientific skills will remain in demand, ensuring employability and economic resilience.
“As 21st-century educators, it is our duty to identify areas that need improvement and continuously find ways to enhance learning and ensure that students are academically prepared and equipped with the practical skills that they need to thrive in their chosen fields to make a meaningful impact on society,” stated Dr Cheddie.
Compiled by Warren Hawkins
