Change the world

18/02/2022

Piloted for the first time last year, Nelson Mandela University’s Govan Mbeki Mathematics Development Centre has extended its incubator school programme to assist past matriculants, giving them a second chance to pass their exams or improve their marks.

The programme, called GMMDC’s Mathematics and Physical Sciences ReMatric programme, is already yielding positive results.

“Among the ReMatric learners, the average maths mark improved from 40 to 50%, while the average marks for physical science climbed from 44 to 52%. The top mark for maths was 71%, and for physical science, 72%,” said GMMDC’s Peter Weisswange, who coordinates the ReMatric programme.

Hailie Hutton, a past matriculant on the ReMatric programme, was thrilled to pass her physical science exam in 2021. After failing the subject in 2020, her marks improved by more than 20% - giving her the pass she needed.

“Passing science means I now have options which I didn’t have when I failed. I hope to pursue nursing as I’m passionate about helping others in a medical way but later, I hope to become a doctor,” said Hutton.

“Hailie’s achievement was the result of hard work, of grappling with the required materials, and being totally engaged with facilitators and others supporting her in her efforts,” said Weiswange.

GMMDC director, Prof Werner Oliver, said securing a R1 million donation had made the ReMatric pilot possible – but his hope is that this programme will grow even bigger, helping even more learners and young adults across the entire country.

“The latest results show that more than 23 000 learners failed matric mathematics in the Eastern Cape alone. This is up from the previous year, when 21 000 learners failed the subject.

“Around 8 000 learners rewrote matric mathematics in 2021 through the Department of Education’s Second Chance Programme. But there are thousands more who would benefit from the opportunity.

“This revised hybrid model can help many more people engage in self-directed learning and tap into their own potential.”

Olivier is also hoping to establish a MobiTutorZA Academy Programme at Nelson Mandela University, which school learners and current students can access, to improve their knowledge of maths and science and boost their chances of succeeding at post-school studies.

For more information on any of GMMDC’s programmes, WhatsApp 064 044 0717 (preferred communication) or e-mail: gmmdc.nmu@gmail.com

Hailie Hutton, a past matriculant on the ReMatric programme, was thrilled to pass her Physical Science exam in 2021. After failing the subject in 2020, her marks improved by more than 20% – giving her the pass she needed.

Contact information
Ms Zandile Mbabela
Media Manager
Tel: 0415042777
Zandile.Mbabela@mandela.ac.za