Through two engaging panel discussions, we will explore the challenges experienced on the ground, the opportunities linked to mathematics education and what must be done to secure a stronger future for learners.
The first panel, “Understanding the Reality on the Ground”, will be facilitated by Dr Viren Ramdhany, Senior Lecturer in Mathematics Education and Deputy Head of the Department of Mathematics, Science and Technology Education at the University of Johannesburg.
The second panel, “Mathematics, Opportunity, and the Future”, will be facilitated by Sizakele Mphatsoe, Head of Education at Kagiso Trust.
#EducationConversations @YassimKat@EduFacultyUJ@go2uj
“Mathematics does not only open doors to opportunity. It builds the discipline and resilience needed to solve problems whose answers do not yet exist.”
Mlungisi Nkosi reminded participants at #EducationConversations that the value of Mathematics extends beyond marks, qualifications and career pathways.
Drawing on the story of the Wright brothers, he reflected on how meaningful breakthroughs often emerge from the willingness to measure, calculate, test, fail, adjust and return to a problem.
This capacity to persevere is increasingly important in a complex and rapidly changing world.
When learners engage meaningfully with Mathematics, they not only acquire technical knowledge. They develop critical thinking, problem-solving skills, discipline and the confidence to approach challenges that may not have immediate or obvious solutions.
The possibilities become limitless when learners understand that difficulty is not a reason to give up, but an invitation to think differently and try again.
@go2uj@EduFacultyUJ
Session 2 of today’s #EducationConversations is moderated by Sizakele Mphatsoe @SizakeleMphats2, Head of Education at Kagiso Trust, “Mathematics, Opportunity and the Future” shifts the discussion from the realities experienced in schools to the solutions, partnerships and innovations needed to strengthen Mathematics education.
The panel brings together:
Mlungisi Nkosi, an award-winning educational content creator, STEM advocate and former Mathematics and Science teacher;
Ernest Phahlamohlaka, a Mathematics educator teaching Grades 11 and 12 in Limpopo;
Samson Hove, a Mathematics educator and mentor specialising in teacher development and learner support; and
Nicolas Mmako, Mathematics and Science Education Portfolio Lead at Investec Corporate Social Investment.
The central question guiding this session is: How can Mathematics be repositioned as a gateway to opportunity rather than a barrier to success?
@go2uj@EduFacultyUJ
“Mathematics is the language of our future. It powers innovation, drives economic growth and equips young people with the skills they need to compete in an increasingly complex world.”
Opening today’s #EducationConversations, Mandisa Tselane @Keamandi, Head of Marketing and Communications at Kagiso Trust, highlighted the urgent need to address the declining uptake and performance of Mathematics in South African schools.
While accountability and improved pass rates are important, schools may experience pressure to discourage learners from choosing Mathematics because it is perceived as an academic risk.
“The unintended consequence is that while schools celebrate improved pass rates, our country risks producing fewer engineers, scientists, mathematicians, economists and innovators. The very people South Africa needs to grow its economy and solve tomorrow’s challenges,” said Tselane.
Today’s conversation brings together voices from government, academia, industry and the basic education sector to examine the realities behind this challenge and identify practical solutions for strengthening Mathematics education.
#EducationConversations @EduFacultyUJ@go2uj@YassimKat
@MWEBTweets is your customer service center working, how can one be on hold for an hour??? Yooooo🙈🙈 I think you’re the worst service provider, your chat bot is useless. Are private institutions? Nnnnnxxx
Closing the session, our Head of Marketing and Communications, @Keamandi, reflected on the central thread of today’s dialogue, returning to the opening message that “young people are powerful agents in shaping what education should be.” She highlighted a key tension that education systems are designed for young people, but “not always with them,” pointing to concerns raised during the session that “the curriculum is too old and outdated” and that some sectors are “not cool enough.”
Drawing from the speakers’ contributions, Mandisa emphasised that solutions lie across youth activism, system alignment, innovation, and human-centred approaches, but ultimately “sit with the youth themselves.” Her closing message called for a shift from consultation to co-creation, reminding participants that “true co-creation happens through ongoing, inclusive and accessible conversations.”
#EducationConversations @EduFacultyUJ
Over two days we reflected, challenged, and reimagined what it means to lead with integrity, courage, and vision. From keynote addresses to powerful panel discussions, the conversations affirmed that; ethical leadership is not just a choice, but a compass that shapes our schools, communities, and future.
With a Vote of Thanks delivered by @Keamandi, our Head of Marketing & Communications, thank you to our partners, speakers, and everyone who joined the dialogue. We invite you to continue to #IgniteHumanCapacity, and #ReImaginingTheFuture
#LeadershipConference @go2uj
Join us on June 16 at the 1st ever "Language Our Freedom" Event. Rooted in our history of the Soweto Uprisings, It is a dialogue to celebrate and discuss the future of African Languages in SA Classrooms and Society. It will be a hybrid event (incl. Virtual) hosted at @UWConline
Eric Molobi: A Legacy of Resolute Leadership Launch happening right now!
Peter Doyle’s quote reminds us that Eric Molobi’s strength was in his calm resolve and ability to drive change without fanfare. This book captures that essence — an example for every changemaker.
👉 Explore the legacy: https://t.co/W6qzY1yhFg
@Kagiso_Trust
#inspiringpossibilities #inspiringchange #EricMolobiALegacyofResoluteLeadership #KagisoTrust