THE Port of East London has put its money where its mouth is with the financial support of the Scitech Maths and Science programme for Grade 12 learners and teachers.
The Eastern Cape’s 2017 Matric results were the lowest in the country for the eighth consecutive year, something the Transnet National Ports Authority (TNPA) aims to help change with its Corporate Social Investment focus area of education.
“The Port of East London is committed to make a difference where the province’s biggest need is – education. We specifically help the community in which we operate to build capacity in maths and science,” said Port Manager Sharon Sijako.
A number of Scitech learners have also successfully entered the maritime and engineering fields as well as other maths and science related careers. They were further impacted by life skills, leadership skills and career development support, which is integrated throughout the programme.
In 2017, 30 maths and physical science teachers and 240 Grade 12 learners benefitted from the programme, including a Holiday School at ITEC’s premises in East London and Sandisiwe High School in Mdantsane. The learners also participated in TNPA career expos, maritime career guidance days and other academic interventions throughout the year.
Scitech includes a strong teacher support element, since a key challenge in improving maths and science outcomes is teacher subject knowledge and teaching techniques. The project, in conjunction with the Department of Education, offers much needed seminars to teachers.
Teachers are supported in specific content problem areas which are highlighted by the National Diagnostic Report published each year by the Department of Basic Education.
TNPA’s financial support included coordination, tutoring costs, computer training, field trips, transport of learners and staff, catering, administration costs and project management.
ITEC, a Non-Profit Organisation, was founded over 30 years ago to provide non-racial services and resources during the height of political tension and turmoil. It has remained responsive to education and development needs in the Eastern Cape, offering a range of programmes that include maths, science and technology, reading for pleasure and meaning, and early childhood development. To promote long-term and deep change, ITEC focuses on building adult capacity to support children’s learning and development.