Literacy, maths shocker in SA

2009-06-18 19:02

Johannesburg - Most primary school pupils in South Africa are failing tests for basic language and mathematics skills, the Children's Institute said on Thursday.

"Poor national averages for language and mathematics in grades three and six show that most learners do not acquire the skills and understanding that give substance to the right to education." said the Children's Institute in a statement.

The institute is part of the University of Cape Town and published a report about pupils on Thursday.

The report found that only 36% of grade three pupils passed literacy and 35% numeracy. Grade six pupils also performed badly as only 38% passed literacy and 27% mathematics.

Access to education ‘not enough’

This poor performance was despite South Africa's high student enrolment rate of 96%.

"South Africa has a high enrolment rate for grades one through nine, but simply being enrolled in school is not enough to ensure meaningful access to education, or meaningful learning outcomes."

The report said that access to education was not enough. Children also required adequate textbooks, "competent and prepared teachers", a curriculum that built a strong foundation, better teaching facilities and laboratories, and a safe environment.

"Many schools still operate on a budget that does not allow for the delivery of quality education or the provision of school infrastructure that assists learning.

"More importantly, school funding excludes teacher salaries, which limits the impact on learner outcomes," said the institute's Katharine Hall.
 

- SAPA