GAUTENG'S POOR EDUCATION THREATENS ECONOMIC FUTURE
Although Gauteng's Annual National Assessment results are the second best in the country they are still horrendously low and imperil the future of South Africa's economic powerhouse.
The average score in all areas for Grades 3 and 6 is below 40% as can be seen in the following table:
|
Subject area and grade |
Average percentage scores |
|
Literacy, Grade 3 |
35% |
|
Numeracy, Grade 3 |
30% |
|
Languages, Grade 6 |
35% |
|
Mathematics, Grade 6 |
37% |
Only 23% of Gauteng's Grade 6 pupils obtained more than 50% in the key subject of mathematics. Twenty nine percent of 6th graders got over 50% in languages.
Amongst 3rd graders, 21% got more than 50% for Numeracy and 33% more than 50% for literacy (see table below).
|
Subject area and grade |
Not achieved (below 35%) |
Partially achieved (35% and over, but less that 50%) |
Achieved (50% and over, but less than 70%) |
Outstanding (70% and over) |
|
Literacy, Grade 3 |
53% |
15% |
20% |
13% |
|
Numeracy, Grade 3 |
62% |
17% |
15% |
6% |
|
Languages, Grade 6 |
54% |
17% |
22% |
7% |
|
Mathematics, Grade 6 |
53% |
23% |
17% |
6% |
These appalling results will not provide the skills that Gauteng needs to grow. It threatens the viability of Gauteng as a high-tech, value-adding, knowledge-based economy (a "smart province") in the future.
The Gauteng Education Department should follow DA-run Western Cape in doing regular, independent evaluations, that include Grade 9s as well.
Gauteng should also hold school principals directly accountable for poor results, as in the Western Cape.
It is time to implement workable policies and dismiss those who under- perform so that pupils get quality education.
Statement issued by Khume Ramulifho, DA MPL, DA Gauteng education spokesperson, June 30 2011
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