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- R1.2 billion has been earmarked to reverse Covid-19 learning losses in the Western Cape.
- The funding will go towards improving Mathematics and Language grades in the province.
- The programme comes after scores of pupils failed systemic learning tests in the province last year.
The Western Cape Education Department has announced a R1.2-billion programme to reverse Covid-19 learning losses in the province.
The "big, bold intervention" will aim to reverse the decline seen in the province's 2022 systemic test results for Mathematics and reading, said Education MEC David Maynier.
Only 47.3% of Grade 3 pupils were able to pass the Mathematics test, and there was a pass rate of only 38.5% on the Language test. Grade 6 pupils scored a pass rate of 39% for Mathematics and 36% for Language. Grade 9 pupils achieved less than a 19% pass rate for Mathematics and 50% for Language.
"We simply cannot say that a child is receiving quality education if more than half of our Grade 3, 6, and 9 learners cannot achieve the basic pass score for Mathematics and Reading," said Maynier.
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"And we expect the results of the Progress in International Reading and Literacy Study 2021, due to be released next week, to show learners across our country are facing the same challenge."
The funding will be spread over three years and the programme will be rolled out at 333 schools. Each school will receive "targeted support based on the systemic test results".
Maynier said:
"All school phases are covered, with all grades in the Foundation Phase, and Grade 4 in the Intermediate Phase, Grades 7 and 8 in the Senior Phase, and Grades 10 and 12 in the Further Education and Training Phase, targeted."
The programme will rely on a variety of teaching, learning and support methods, both in person and online, including weekend classes for lower grades, and will see increased time allocated to maths and reading during the school day for Foundation Phase.
Maynier added that the programme would be closely monitored by a "war room" held every two weeks, during which officials from across the province would provide updates and feedback.
"A tremendous amount of work has gone into getting this massive programme off the ground," he said.
"The reception from the principals and teachers in the run-up to the launch has been outstanding, and we look forward to their continued support and feedback."
