Mathematics, Science and Technology (MST) education remains central to South Africa’s efforts to equip learners with the knowledge, skills and competencies required to thrive in an increasingly technological and innovation-driven world.
Through the MST Conditional Grant, the Department of Basic Education (DBE) continues to strengthen teaching and learning, improve access to essential resources and expand opportunities for learners, particularly in historically disadvantaged communities.
The DBE has implemented a range of strategies, guided by the Integrated National Strategy for Mathematics, Science and Technology (MST) Education (2019–2030), to improve performance in Mathematics and Physical Science. These strategies are directly aligned to the Minister’s five key priorities for the 7th Administration, particularly the focus on strengthening foundational learning, improving teacher development, and enhancing equity of access to quality education across the system.
A strong foundation in literacy and numeracy is essential for later success in Mathematics and Physical Science. The DBE is implementing a comprehensive plan to strengthen numeracy in the Foundation Phase (Grades R–3) and to improve Mathematics preparation in the Senior Phase (Grades 8–9). The phased introduction of Mother Tongue-based Bilingual Education (MTbBE) in Mathematics, Natural Sciences and Technology (starting in Grade 4 in 2025) is a key intervention to improve comprehension and learning outcomes. The years 2023, 2024 and 2025 were declared as successive “Years of Mathematics”, extending to include Physical Science in 2025. This initiative is aimed at breaking historical pass rate ceilings (60%, 70%, and now targeting 75%), with specific campaigns such as Maths Fridays to boost learner participation and confidence.
Teacher development and support is essential for improvement in learner outcomes through sustained investment in the quality of teaching. Continuous professional development programmes are being prioritised through the National Mathematics Improvement Programme (NMIP) and subject-specific training. The Funza Lushaka Bursary Scheme continues to prioritise Mathematics and Physical Science graduates, ensuring a pipeline of qualified teachers, especially for rural and high-need schools.
The DBE has also developed Guidelines for the Establishment and Management of Focus Schools to support provinces in identifying, designating and managing schools that offer vocational and occupational pathways across all ordinary public schools. Implementation must be aligned to appropriate institutions, including Focus Schools, Schools of Skill, technical schools and other suitable settings, where the necessary curriculum, infrastructure, equipment, staffing and partnerships can be properly planned and supported.
The DBE’s MST strategy, together with the Minister’s emphasis on foundational learning, teacher development and equitable access to quality, is designed to improve learner performance in Mathematics and Physical Science sustainably. The combined effect of these measures is already yielding progress, with notable improvements in Mathematics pass rates since 2023.