Due to the introduction of new subjects in South Africa’s education system, many teachers have raised concerns about the lack of professional development.
According to studies, there are not enough teachers who are qualified to provide the best education possible.
A global benchmark test was conducted on math teachers in various countries. The results revealed that only 41% of them were able to perform well.
Experts in the field of education questioned the measures taken to ensure that teachers who come from universities are competent to provide high-quality education to students.
Members of Parliament’s portfolio committee on basic education held a meeting last week to discuss the concerns about the skills of South African teachers.
According to the department, the competency tests for teachers are being conducted in various subjects. They noted that these tests are not only for math and science subjects.
Angie Motshekga, the minister of Basic Education, revealed that an audit revealed that many teachers did not have the necessary skills to teach math at the intermediate and foundation levels.
In 2007, the government partnered with the education department to introduce the Funza Lushaka Bursaries Program, which aimed to improve the teaching profession.
According to the minister, the country has made significant progress in the field of science and mathematics.
Minister Motshekga noted that the country is currently at the stage where there is a shortage of teaching positions.
She noted that the excess funds allocated for the Funza Lushaka Bursaries Scheme have been redirected to the development of science and mathematics in the country.
The minister also noted that the department has a working relationship with the higher education sector, which is responsible for the training of teachers.
According to the minister, the changes that have occurred in the country since the inception of a democratic government have benefited the new batch of teachers.
Through interactions with other teachers, the new teachers were able to improve their skills in teaching various subjects.
