Basic Education Department stands firm against Mathematical Literacy abolition

The Department of Basic Education has firmly rejected suggestions to abolish Mathematical Literacy, stating that any changes to the curriculum must consider the diverse needs of learners and the nation. Former Education minister Naledi Pandor sparked the debate with her comments, but the department maintained that curriculum reforms are an ongoing process aimed at ensuring the curriculum meets South Africa's educational, economic, and developmental requirements.

Mathematical Literacy is designed to equip learners with practical skills such as mathematics, financial management, and problem-solving abilities that can be applied in daily life. The department emphasized that Mathematics, Technical Mathematics, and Mathematical Literacy serve different purposes and cater to various career pathways. Mathematics supports fields like science, healthcare, engineering, finance, and technology, while Technical Mathematics is geared towards technical and vocational careers.

Any potential review of these subjects would need to account for factors such as curriculum design, teacher availability, progression requirements, higher-education entrance criteria, and the nation's economic needs. The department also highlighted the importance of supporting learners who are capable of pursuing Mathematics, ensuring they are given the necessary resources and opportunities.

Acting Director of Communications Terence Khala clarified that the department does not see Mathematical Literacy as the issue, but rather the broader question of whether the current system provides learners with the most robust mathematical foundation possible. The department's priority remains to enhance equitable access to Mathematics education while continuously improving teaching and learning practices throughout the schooling system.