Too many children are reluctant to take pure maths as a school subject. This can close doors to potential study and career opportunities. Parents and educators need to be encouraging children to break away from the misconception that maths is only for some and not accessible to all.
This message came across strongly last week at the launch of the Stellenzicht Mathematics Programme at Stellenzicht Secondary School in Jamestown, Stellenbosch. The programme is an initiative of the Friends of Stellenzicht Trust and is generously sponsored by Ducharme Consulting. The Stellenzicht Mathematics Programme gives grade 10 to 12 learners access to a full-time, pure maths educator, Mr Edwin Schroeder.
Former Stellenzicht learner and maths teacher, Charlene Taurijo, shared her own journey at the launch. As a child, she had to study by candlelight in a home environment that was not at all conducive to a bright future – surrounded by drug and alcohol abuse. Their home had no access to electricity or sanitation.
Despite the odds, Charlene graduated top of her class and made the decision that she would one day provide her children with a better life than the one she had growing up. Today, Charlene teaches maths at Weber Gedenk Primary School, where she is also currently serving as the Acting Deputy Principal.
Keep up the good work, all!
Jamestown is one of the towns that forms part of Nedbank’s Proud of my Town initiative. Strong Schools is one of the key programmes of the initiative and Ranyaka will be looking to become increasingly involved in supporting the schools in this area. Thank you for your support, Ducharme Consulting – and your immense commitment to investing into the future of our learners!