Stem support to help local pupils excel
UWC, basic education department, LGSeta assist schools
Agroup of 300 Ndlambe pupils from grade 10 to 12, who take maths and science as subjects, will enjoy extra support for their academic endeavours this year.
A new partnership between the University of the Western Cape (UWC), Department of Basic Education and the Local Government Sector Education and Training Authority (LGSeta) aims to get more young people from the Ndlambe area qualifying in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (Stem) subjects at tertiary level.
The interventions include additional contact learning sessions, winter programmes and career guidance.
The Stem support programme was the focus of a meeting between local high school principals, Ndlambe municipal management and a delegation from UWC in the Ndlambe council chambers.
The aim of the visit to Ndlambe Municipality was to strengthen the relationship among key stakeholders and ensure an implementation plan is drawn up.
The project is being funded by the LGSeta and aims to improve the performance of grade 10-12 pupils who take Stem subjects.
The introduction of the Maths and Science Project strategically aligns with the adoption of the Bright Sparks project, an initiative of the Eastern Cape education department. This project aims to support schools to improve their performances.
The atmosphere in the meeting was one of positivity and collaboration, starting off with Ndlambe municipal manager, Rolly Dumezweni, extending a warm welcome to all the guests.
“I must extend my heartfelt welcome to everyone present here today – the esteemed officials from the University of Western Cape, representatives from the Department of Education, and all other attendees,” he said.
“It is truly an honour for Ndlambe to be chosen as the recipient of this programme, orchestrated by Lozola ManeliPayi.
“We recognise the efforts it took to bring this initiative to us, considering the distance between our regions. This gesture is something we deeply appreciate.”
Dumezweni also applauded local schools for their ongoing efforts and commendable performances.
“Our local principals are doing an exceptional job, and we are proud of the results
they’ve achieved. In Ndlambe Municipality, within the Sarah Baartman District, we stand as a beacon of excellence, particularly in academic outcomes,” he proudly declared.
Ncedikaya Magopeni, representing UWC, then introduced the Maths and Science Project, supported by the LGSeta.
He explained the project’s core focus on mathematics and science, highlighting the importance of the partnership between UWC and local schools to address crucial educational and psycho-social needs among pupils.
“Our presence here today [Wednesday, March 24] stems from recognising an opportunity presented to the post school system to focus on key educational initiatives supported by LGSeta,” Magopeni said.
“The project is our response to the urgent need for improved
performance in mathematics and science.
“Through collaborative efforts, we aim to provide an enabling environment and provide learners with the
support they need to excel.” Magopeni emphasised the importance of stakeholder involvement in shaping the implementation plan, expressing the desire for diverse perspectives given the local context.
He outlined the project’s scope, targeting 100 pupils in each grade, from grades 10 to 12.
The project will offer contact learning sessions, including winter programmes and career guidance, ensuring a holistic approach.
As the meeting concluded, there was a tangible sense of optimism and enthusiasm among attendees, united in their commitment to fostering academic excellence and empowering Ndlambe youth.
Through this initiative, there is an opportunity to brighten the future of many talented pupils in the Eastern Cape who can go on to succeed in their tertiary studies and beyond.