No Mathematics classes at one-in-four schools in SA, for grades 10 – 12 

15 July 2015

A reply to a DA parliamentary question has revealed that one-in-four South African schools do not offer Mathematics in grades 10, 11 or 12.

I have today written to the Education Minister to request that she explains to Parliament why one-in-four schools are allowed to deny learners a full matric maths education on her watch, and how this will be urgently rectified.

Being denied maths education is a denial of achieving one’s true potential in life, and severely limits our young people from seizing opportunities.

Every one of the top skills listed in the 100 scarce skills list requires learners to have done mathematics. Not offering the subject is denying them the opportunity to pursue any of these careers, and denying the country the opportunity to develop the skills that it needs.

The percentages for each province are stated as such:

While the Minister has stated that a plan was developed to introduce mathematics to more schools, it is clear that an unacceptable number of schools still deny learners Maths education.

The Minister’s reasons for this, to date, have been flimsy and unsubstantiated. Our challenge to the Minister is to provide reasons that justify denying our young people the meaningful education they deserve, without hiding behind systemic shortcomings.

It is well known that South Africa consistently ranks very low on the quality of our maths and science results according to a number of different reports. 

The DA believes that each and every South African must be given the chance to succeed in life. 

The DA will continue to fight for the quality education that all our children deserve for their sake and for the future success of our country.

Statement issued by Annette Lovemore, DA Shadow Minister of Basic Education, July 15 2015