The R1.5m invested by Isuzu Motors SA to advance mathematics and physical science in schools in disadvantaged communities around Nelson Mandela Bay is starting to bear fruit, with all three schools showing marked improvements in both subjects.
This follows the relaunch of the three-year partnership in 2024 with Nelson Mandela University’s Govan Mbeki Mathematics Development Centre (GMMDC).
The initiative provides innovative teaching and learning tools to three Gqeberha-based high schools — Kwazakhele, Newell and Sophakama.
These tools include the GammaTutor mobile teaching device and curriculum aligned MobiTutorZA software.
The NMU maths centre’s project leader, Natalie Gill, said since its launch the partnership had enabled significant improvement in mathematics and physical science results compared with the previous years.
“The programme has allowed us to improve the learning and teaching environment at the three high schools, where we have seen a 24% improvement in mathematics and 16% in physical science results.
“We also noted exceptional individual achievements from learners who effectively used our mobile learning support platforms and resources,” Gill said.
Notably, 10 out of 45 pupils either achieved a distinction or significantly improved their maths marks, with more than 50% achieving bachelor passes in 2024.
“While the project is still in its infancy, this is a commendable outcome considering the educational challenges faced by these three project schools,” Gill said.
Isuzu executive vice-president for corporate services Celestin Ndhlovu said education was one of its key corporate social responsibility pillars, aligned to the company’s broader strategy to drive meaningful change within the communities in which it operated.
“Our collaboration with GMMDC is a demonstration of our commitment to invest in the future of young people by equipping them with requisite skills that we believe will help them progress in their chosen careers,” Ndhlovu said.
“We are pleased to witness the progress made in improving the learning environment and academic outcomes in these critical subjects.”
She said they remained committed to supporting teachers and pupils through the programme to promote innovative thinking, collaboration and creative problem-solving skills.
“Our long-term goal is to narrow the skills gap by improving the quality of education, aligning learning outcomes with future skills needs, primarily through the promotion and adoption of STEM subjects in schools across Nelson Mandela Bay,” Ndhlovu said.
The Herald
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