Neelam Rahim | neelam@radioislam.co.za

3-minute read
16 January 2025 | 08:39 CAT

Bridging the gap between education, mathematics, and tomorrow’s skills.

South Africa recently celebrated a notable improvement in matric pass rates, signalling progress in the education sector. However, beneath the celebratory headlines lies a pressing issue: the diminishing number of learners opting for mathematics. This alarming trend is just one of many challenges raised by Professor Kathija Yassim, an education expert and Associate Professor in the Department of Education Leadership and Management, in an interview with Radio Islam International.

“Mathematics is a key gateway subject,” Yassim highlighted. “Without it, how can we prepare young people for future jobs that demand mathematical and algorithmic skills?” Despite improved matric results, fewer than 30% of learners take mathematics, which drastically limits their access to careers requiring analytical and problem-solving expertise.

South Africa’s global educational standing further underscores the urgency for reform. In a 2024 comparative study involving learners from 58 countries, South Africa ranked last. “Three decades into democracy and educational reform, how are we still not getting it right?” Yassim asked. This  reality raises questions about the effectiveness of current policies and teaching methodologies.

Yassim advocates for transforming the teaching approach rather than overhauling the curriculum. She cited successful examples from resource-strapped schools that made mathematics life-relevant. By integrating real-world applications such as using quadratic equations for product projections, these schools have helped learners grasp complex concepts more effectively.

“When children use mathematics in a way that’s life-relevant, it makes sense to them,” said Yassim, emphasizing the importance of practical learning.

Technology and artificial intelligence (AI) are reshaping the job market, and South Africa’s education system must keep pace. Yassim warned, “People who fail to use AI effectively in their work will be replaced by those who do.” She highlighted that children are already adept at using tools like Meta Llama on WhatsApp, often outpacing adults in their digital fluency.

Yassim believes the key to educational reform lies in engaging with young people. “We do not live in the world of our children. Education fails them because we don’t listen,” she said. By understanding students’ perspectives and aligning education with their realities, South Africa can create a system that empowers its youth for the future.

Yassim concluded, “Through innovation and collaboration, we can ensure our children go from strength to strength.”

Listen to the full interview on Your World Today with Moulana Habib Bobat and Professor Kathija Yassim here.