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An abacus or counting frame used to teach children mathematics.
The Mega Maths festival currently underway at the University of the Western Cape is providing a platform to celebrate mathematics as a language of opportunity, connection and economic growth.
The festival will convene learners, educators, researchers, students, policymakers, and industry leaders from across the country to engage with mathematics not only as a subject, but as a tool for shaping futures, especially in underserved communities.
The gathering is hosted by the Department of Higher Education in partnership with the African Institute for Mathematical Science (AIMS).
Delegates have emphasised the importance of mathematics in advancing the economy and addressing some of the key socio-economic challenges like unemployment.
University Education Deputy Director General from the Department of Higher Education and Training, Dr Marcia Socikwa says Mathematics has the potential to reduce unemployment and contribute to the growth of the economy,
“Mathematics is the core everywhere in the world and if we want to reverse unemployment in this country, it is absolutely critical that we embrace it with a level of interest in our youngsters, in our teachers, in our politicians. Everyone needs to appreciate how important mathematics is for the growth of the economy,” says Socikwa.
Mathematics seen as 13th National Language at festival
Socikwa says their aim is to improve teaching in mathematics in order to attract more learners,
“If we get the teaching right, we will certainly be able to ensure that more children do Pure Maths as opposed to Maths Literacy [for matric]. As you know, at university it is Pure Maths that counts for supporting applications in Science, Engineering and Technology. Ultimately, those are some of the subjects that support the pipeline for critical skills,” she adds.
Director of the African Institute for Mathematics Sciences (AIMS), Professor Ulrich Paquet says a strong mathematical foundation is critical to the success of the economy,
“Through an analysis in Europe, it was shown that for every rand that would be invested in Mathematic Sciences there is a R510 return in economic value. That’s more than any other discipline that one could potentially invest in. It tells about mathematics as prevalent in almost every part of life. It drives our economy in many seen and unseen ways,” says Paquet.
University of the Western Cape acting Vice-Chancellor, Professor Matete Madiba says the festival also aims to change negative perceptions around mathematics that some learners and parents have.
“AIMS has been going for a while with the support of the department. From now on, it is shifting gears and creating a movement to make sure that we change our attitude towards maths. For sure, you are aware of how intimidating maths is to kids, their parents and to many others, but this festival aims to help us change our thinking and see maths as our 13th language,” says Madiba.
Officials say they are developing programmes to assist rural communities across South Africa that require improved equipment and facilities to learn maths.
