BLOEMFONTEIN: The ongoing partnership in the Family Math and Science Summit programme between the South African National Roads Agency SOC Limited (Sanral) and the University of the Free State (UFS) continues to make an impactful change. This was highlighted at the 15th instalment of the programme held at the university’s campus in Bloemfontein on Friday, 3 October.
This innovative partnership entails training Mathematics and Science teachers, as well as supporting learners and parents, and has ultimately resulted in its expansion to nine additional universities across the country. It was initiated in 2018 and has grown in status. In an issued statement, the parties confirmed that the number of participants benefitting from this partnership continued to increase since its inception.
“Since 2018, the number has soared from just over 25 000 to more than 105 000 in 2024, reaching a total of 426 000 beneficiaries. This includes over 5 800 teachers, almost 320 000 learners, nearly 98 000 parents, and over 4 300 students,” said Themba Mhambi, Sanral’s board chairperson.
Sanral’s board has approved the continuation of funding for this project based on its success.
Mhambi said the project’s success has even prompted expansion to include universities in provinces such as the Western Cape, North West and Gauteng.
“Using public funds, it is in our interest and an obligation that we ensure that this programme not only continues, but that it grows in leaps and bounds. Our dedication to this programme is to ensure its success,” said Mhambi.
“One of the major disadvantages of rural schools is the lack of teaching resources. More than 40% of the total project budget is allocated to classroom teaching resources, including learners’ worksheets and activity material, as well as parent workshop resources.
“Sanral’s contribution addresses one of the most basic and fundamental needs in teaching and learning at rural schools.”
Prof. Hester Klopper, vice-chancellor and principal of the UFS, said that the university’s partnership with Sanral demonstrated its commitment to advancing mathematics education for young people.
“The vision we share with Sanral represents something remarkable in the university landscape. This initiative has now touched thousands of lives across the country,” stated Klopper.
“And this is much more than just numbers; it is about fundamental change in how we approach maths and science education in our schools for the development of our children and this country’s citizens.”
