Pretoria: The Minister of Science, Technology and Innovation (DSTI), Professor Blade Nzimande, has urged learners who did not perform well to remain hopeful and explore other options, including various post-school training opportunities. He also encouraged them to consider taking advantage of a second chance to improve their results. Nzimande made this call as he joined the nation in celebrating the hard work and achievements of the Grade 12 Class of 2024.
According to South African Government News Agency, as the Minister responsible for the development and promotion of science, technology, and innovation in South Africa, Nzimande expressed concerns similar to those of the Minister of Basic Education about the significant underperformance of learners in Grades 5 to 9 in mathematics and science, compared to their global counterparts. He noted a decline in enrolments in crucial subjects such as physical sciences, mathematics, accounting, and economics, which are vital for the country’s progress in science, innovation, and economic development.
Nzimande outlined plans for the next five years, where the Department of Science, Technology, and Innovation will actively support government efforts to enhance the performance of the schooling system in science and mathematics subjects. The Minister emphasized the necessity for substantial and sustained growth in the production of STEM graduates to enable South Africa’s technology-led future.
The DSTI has adopted the mantra “Placing science, technology, and innovation at the centre of government, education, industry, and society.” As part of their contribution to addressing challenges in the basic education sector, the department aims to strengthen its existing cooperation with the Department of Basic Education, supported by agreements with the nine provincial departments of education.
Furthermore, the department plans to reinforce its collaboration with the Department of Higher Education, focusing on higher education skills development, including science skills. The DSTI is implementing several extra-curricular and non-formal activities in the basic education sector, aimed at exciting learners about maths and science and improving performance in these subjects. These activities include the National Science Week (NSW), career guidance, and the distribution of Science, Engineering, and Technology (SET) career materials at various events, communities, and schools.
Nzimande highlighted the significance of Mathematics Olympiads in developing learners’ problem-solving skills. In 2023, more than 77,000 learners participated in the South African Mathematics Olympiad (SAMO), and in 2024, over 84,000 primary school learners participated in the South African Mathematics Challenge. The DSTI believes these science awareness and engagement interventions are crucial for enhancing learner performance and achieving the strategic goal of placing science, technology, and innovation at the core of society.
For further information on careers in science and training materials, contact the Department of Science, Technology and Innovation, Deputy Director for Science Promotion, Bersan Lesch at 071 112 6236 or [email protected].