Question NW508 to the Minister of Public Works and Infrastructure
30 March 2020 - NW508
Graham, Ms SJ to ask the Minister of Public Works and Infrastructure
(1) With reference to her statement during the Debate on Vote No 11 - Public Works and Infrastructure on 10 July 2019, what (a) are the criteria for the selection of the schools that will participate in the Mathematics and Science Programme, (b) is the duration of support for each school, (c) are the reasons that only 15 schools have been identified versus the 33 in the previous period and (d) number of learners from the participating schools have attended university and/or other higher educational institutions which can be attributed to the intervention of her department; (2) whether there is a standardised period for participation; if not, what is the position in this regard; if so, what criteria would extend or shorten the period of support?
Reply:
The Minister of Public Works and Infrastructure:
1. (a)The criteria for the selection of the schools that will participate in the Mathematics and Science Programme are as follows:
- Schools from disadvantaged communities (townships, farms, rural and informal settlements)
- Good academic performance in schools (with learner achievement of 60% and above in Mathematics and Physical Science).
- Schools with a potential to expand the provision of high quality Mathematics and Physical Science (teaching and learning).
- Schools displaying a commitment to succeed and can-do attitude.
(b)The duration of support for each school is five (5) years.
(c)The reasons that only 15 schools have been identified versus the 33 in the previous period (2013-2019)is that thedepartment has not yet finalised the process to adopt new schools in 2020. The 15 schools are continuing from previous years. Adoption of new schools is concluded by 30 April every year. Target over the 2020-2024 MTSF is 44 schools.
(d) The number of learners from the participating schools has attended university and/or other higher education institutions which can be attributed to the DPWI intervention is 234.
2. Yes, there is a standardised period of participation, which is five (5) years. The period can be shortened due to lack of commitment of the schools, dysfunctional structures which lead to non-achievement of Schools Programme annual targets.