The Department of Basic Education has announced that it is working closely with provincial education departments to address the growing concern around the teaching of mathematics in South African schools.
This follows recent findings revealing that 464 schools across the country currently do not offer mathematics as a subject — a development linked to limited resources and declining learner demand.
The department’s Chief Director for Curriculum Implementation and Quality Improvement, Seliki Tlhabane, confirmed that targeted interventions are being rolled out to reverse the trend.
“Our focus will be on these schools that have dropped the subject altogether,” said Tlhabane. “We’re looking at how we can assist them in reintroducing mathematics, by ensuring that qualified teachers are supported and learners are encouraged to take up the subject.”
He added that the government would supply the necessary teaching and learning materials to help these schools, particularly those in the quintile one to three categories, which already receive free resources from the state.
The department’s move comes amid growing concern over South Africa’s performance in core subjects such as mathematics and science — seen as critical to preparing students for the modern workforce.
Education experts have long warned that failure to strengthen the teaching of mathematics could deepen skills shortages in key sectors and hinder economic growth.
The Department has yet to provide a timeline for when all affected schools will receive support, but reassured the public that the issue remains a high priority.