Strengthening STEM education in SA schools through essential tools and training

Nellmapius Secondary in Gauteng. Pictures: Supplied

Nellmapius Secondary in Gauteng. Pictures: Supplied

Published Sep 14, 2024

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South Africa needs to improve its maths education. In the 2019 Trends in International Mathematics and Science Study (TIMSS), South Africa scored third lowest in maths out of the 64 countries profiled at primary school level and second lowest at high school level of the 39 countries profiled. AECI Mining, in partnership with GrowZA (a social investment agency and registered NPO), hopes to improve science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) education in Africa by providing essential resources and training to schools through the Strength in Numbers programme.

Thinus Bierman, acting executive vice-president at AECI Mining, said the Strength in Numbers programme will equip participating schools with comprehensive training for both learners and educators, as well as supplying a bank of scientific calculators.

Dinah Tsebe, plant manager at AECI Mining Chemicals Waltoo.

“Access to scientific calculators enables students to tackle challenging concepts, leading to improved academic performance,” said Bierman.

“A study by the University of Fort Hare (UFH) highlighted significant improvements in maths outcomes with proper training and resources, including scientific calculators. Proficiency in using these tools fosters critical thinking and problem-solving skills, ensures all learners have the resources they need to succeed, and helps teachers to deliver quality STEM education.”

The Fort Hare study found that the absence or inadequate competence in using calculators can lead to a loss of up to 15% of marks in maths exams. It also affects performance in other STEM subjects, including the sciences and economics.

Phomolong Secondary School in Thembisa.

“Skills in mathematics and science have a significant role to play in South Africa’s sustainable growth,” said Bierman. “We are dedicated to investing in the future of STEM education in Africa through providing essential resources and training, promoting sustainable development by encouraging skills for sustainable growth, and building a future-ready workforce by equipping students with competencies for the global economy. As a company working in industries that require STEM skills, we’re also future-proofing ourselves by investing in improving STEM education.”

AECI Mining also offers bursaries, learnerships and training programmes, and Bierman encouraged young people to explore these opportunities on their website.

Thinus Bierman, acting executive vice-president at AECI Mining.

The schools that recently participated in the Strength in Numbers programme with AECI Mining were:

July 23, 2024: Phomolong Secondary and Kwabhekilanga Secondary – Gauteng

July 25, 2024: Nellmapius Secondary – Gauteng

July 29, 2024: Nkgopoleng Secondary, Iketsetseng Comprehensive School and Thuto Lesedi Secondary –Sasolburg

July 31, 2024: Mabogopedi Secondary – Rustenburg

August 5, 2024: Mehlwana Secondary – Emalahleni

September 4, 2024: Strelitzia Secondary School and Kwamakhutha Secondary – eManzimtoti.