Top pupils get wings to help SA soar

At a time when South Africa faces persistent challenges in education, economic growth, public health, energy security and technological competitiveness, the country’s need for strong graduates in mathematics, physical science and related fields has never been greater. For 25 years, theNational Science and Technology Forum(NSTF) has supported South Africa’s top achievers in matric maths and physical science: young people who not only excel academically but who also choose to pursue demanding degrees, among them medicine, engineering and the natural sciences. Through theNSTF Brilliants Programme, a small group of today’s top maths and science learners are on their way to becoming tomorrow’s problem-solvers, innovators and leaders — the very people the country will rely on to address complex national challenges.

Jansie Niehaus, the executive director of the NSTF, said investing in high-achieving pupils, particularly those excelling in maths and science, was essential to strengthen South Africa’s capacity for growth and global competitiveness. “These subjects form the foundation of science, technology, engineering and mathematics (Stem) careers — the very skills base required to drive innovation-led development and solve complex national problems,” she said. The Brilliants Programme, she said, played a vital and strategic role at a time when the country was lagging in maths and science performance.

Data from the Trends inInternational Mathematics and Science Study 2023, released and analysed by the department of basic education, paint a concerning picture. Grade 5 maths scores declined from 374 (2019) to 362 (2023); Grade 5 science scores dropped from 324 (2019) to 308 (2023); and South Africa ranked last internationally among participating countries at this level. This represents a statistically significant decline, placing the country well below the international benchmark of 400 points for basic competence.

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Yet there is more than a glimmer of hope. Since its inception, more than 442 outstanding pupils have been recognised through the Brilliants Programme, many of whom have received bursary support and exposure to South Africa’s scientific and innovation ecosystem. “These students represent a pipeline of future doctors, engineers, researchers, innovators and technology leaders — precisely the human capital South Africa needs to remain competitive in research, innovation and development,” Niehaus added.

Basic Education Minister Siviwe Gwarube has expressed concern over the declining number of learners taking maths and physical science, warning that the trend undermined the development of critical skills required for economic growth. Despite improved overall pass rates, the low uptake of the gateway subjects is widely regarded as a crisis. South Africa continues to grapple with uneven performance in maths and science, particularly in under-resourced communities.

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