A reply to a parliamentary question revealed that the WCED received no support from the Department of Basic Education (DBE) to employ Cuban Mathematics and Science specialists in the Western Cape, after it was reported during early July this year that the Department of Basic Education spent almost R14 million for this programme.
Lorraine Botha, MPP and DA Western Cape Spokesperson on Education says: Despite this, the province produced the national 2 top-performing learners for Mathematics as a key subject, and has increased this subject performance to 70.8%, this year. During 2020, TIMSS ranked the WC as SA’s top performers in both Maths and Science. Additional support from DBE would enable the provincial Department to expand the capacity for maths & science teaching in the province for even greater results.
In addition, conditional Mathematics, Science & Technology Grants for the Western Cape have been cut for the current financial year by almost 4% in the last 12 months. National Government is well aware that it is a global practice to invest in these fields of education. Globally, as the 4th industrial revolution takes hold, these fields of education offer great return on investment not only for learners but for the development of the Western Cape.
I have previously enquired from provincial minister of Education on what measures the WCED has undertaken to advance and encourage maths and science teaching for Grade 9 and 12, when these subjects become optional, but are still required for many courses at universities and TVET colleges. Additional teaching capacity and resources for the province through this programme would contribute significantly.
Instead of consistent support, the provincial education department is expected to do more with less in its aim to provide quality education in the province. The funding model in education is deeply flawed and undermines potential of teaching & learning as it stands.
As the DA in the Western Cape we will continue to advocate for a more sustainable funding model in Education. The sector is an integral part of development and cannot suffer further neglect form national government.
