On 27 August 2024, Zenex Foundation convened experts from government, NGOs, and academia to discuss persistent challenges in the Senior Phase (Grades 7–9) and explore solutions. A panel facilitated by Dr Andile Dube (UNICEF) included Ms Maureen Modiba (DBE), Prof. Madoda Cekiso (Tshwane University of Technology), Dr Lynn Bowie (OLICO), and Ms. Elspeth Khembo (DBE), focusing on learning backlogs, language barriers, and curriculum overload.
The Senior Phase is critical for consolidating foundational knowledge, yet many South African learners face worsening backlogs in this phase, often originating in the early grades. This affects performance, particularly in key subjects like Mathematics and Science, impacting future academic success and career prospects.
Language is a significant barrier, with English as the dominant language of learning and assessment (LoLTA), despite being a second language for many learners. Prof. Cekiso stressed the need for collaboration between content and language teachers to address these challenges. Ms. Modiba called for ongoing teacher development and improved resources for English language instruction.
Learning backlogs, an overloaded curriculum and inadequate structural support compound the problem. Dr Bowie noted that the curriculum, while comprehensive, is too broad and ambitious, leading to superficial coverage of critical topics. She emphasised the importance of a more cohesive approach to address backlogs.
The scale of the crisis is evident in data. The 2019 Trends in International Mathematics and Science Study (TIMSS) showed that only 41% of Grade 9 Mathematics learners and 36% of Science learners achieved basic competency. In the Western Cape’s 2023 systemic tests, just 20.5% of Grade 9 learners passed Mathematics.
To address these challenges, Zenex implements targeted interventions in English and Mathematics. Pilot projects have shown that addressing these issues requires a multifaceted approach, including curriculum reform, teacher training, and structural adjustments.
A comprehensive strategy is essential. The curriculum must be streamlined to balance breadth with depth. Teachers need tools to build both content and literacy skills, and systemic issues like teacher placement and resource allocation must be addressed. Educational technology, though not a panacea, offers potential for personalised learning support.
Zenex remains committed to collaborating with education partners to tackle these challenges.
Watch the seminar proceedings and panel discussion here
Download the presentation here
