As South Africa celebrates the 2024 matric pass rate, which reached an unprecedented 87,3%, up from 82,9% in 2023, SAICA is equally excited about future education opportunities, especially regarding mathematics.
In January the country heard that over 615 000 learners successfully passed their National Senior Certificate (NS successfully passed their National Senior Certificate (NSC) exams and many young learners were celebrated for their remarkable achievements. Among them is Sbusiso Buthelezi, one of KwaZulu-Natal’s top achievers.
His success can not only be attributed to his own hard work and dedication, but also to the support structure around him. Aside from the encouragement from his mom and community, he also attended one of SAICA’s development camps in 2024. These camps, hosted annually in collaboration with the Finance and Accounting Services Sector Education and Training Authority (FASSET) and the Department of Basic Education, equip Grade 11 and 12 learners with the skills needed to improve their mathematics performance and unlock high-demand career opportunities. Most of the 2024 camp attendees achieved impeccable success, with many surpassing the camps’ target of 60% in their final matric results.
Why the focus on mathematics? Without it, Buthelezi cannot fulfil his dream of studying actuarial science. The number of matric learners opting to take mathematics has steadily declined from 46% in 2011 to just 34% in 2023.
In 2024, the numbers continued to decline, with only 255 762 learners registered for mathematics, compared
to 268 100 in 2023. Furthermore, only a small percentage of those who choose the subject achieve the necessary 60% pass to pursue university programmes in fields such as accounting, actuarial science and engineering.
Buthelezi said: ‘The SAICA FASSET maths and accounting camps played a pivotal role in my academic success and personal growth. The teachers went beyond the basics, diving deep into the subject matter and transforming mathematics and accounting into languages I could fluently understand and confidently apply. The structured sessions and rigorous exercises clarified complex concepts, significantly enhancing my analytical and problem-solving skills.
‘Beyond academics, the SAICA camps instilled in me a sense of discipline and resilience. They prepared me for my matric exams and nurtured a mindset of lifelong learning and determination. These camps were more than just a learning experience − they were a turning point in my journey, shaping me into the person I am today.
I wish all learners could experience the support I received at the camps – it truly made a remarkable difference,’ said Buthelezi.
Makabongwe Siziba, FASSET Acting CEO, said: ‘Our collaboration with SAICA is fundamental in preparing matriculants for success. By working together, we ensure students are not only equipped with the necessary skills and knowledge but also gain the confidence to navigate the challenges of higher education. The strength of this partnership is key to empowering students to build brighter futures.’
Robert Zwane, SAICA’s Executive Director: Learning and Development, added: ‘Mathematics develops problem-solving skills, which drives innovation and economic growth. While we’ve seen progress regarding mathematics, we cannot afford to neglect the momentum in this area. The shortage of learners excelling in mathematics is alarming. Without a strong mathematics foundation in education, South Africa risks failing to produce the skilled professionals necessary for our STEM industries. This challenge requires collective action, as there is still much work to be done to bridge the gap.
‘SAICA therefore urges educators, policymakers, parents, and industry leaders to prioritise mathematics education and help build the dreams of our youth. Businesses are encouraged to contribute by offering mentorship, resources, and opportunities to equip maths educators and inspire learners from all communities to excel in maths. We need communities and parents on board to encourage learners to choose mathematics as a subject and provide the necessary support and technology to improve maths education. The strong focus on mathematics isn’t just about individual success − it’s about national progress, and we all need to play our part. We must ensure that all learners have the resources and support to excel in mathematics. Without this, we cannot foresee a future of strong governance, job creation and global competitiveness, which in turn, impacts South Africa’s economic stability,’ added Zwane.
SAICA’s development camps aren’t the only answer. SAICA also offers sponsorship to the top accounting learner in each province every year, as well as a Thuthuka bursary should the learner meet the Thuthuka requirements. Other interventions, like the competition run by the non-profit organisation the South African Mathematics Olympiad (SAMO), play a vital role in improving math proficiency in South Africa and demonstrating that mathematics is not just a subject but a critical skill that opens doors to exciting careers.
‘By encouraging learners to engage with mathematics interactively and competitively, we help them realise their potential and the vast opportunities available to them,’ comments Zwane. ‘We implore other entities in South Africa to join us in creating exciting interventions for learners to excel in mathematics. So far, FASSET and the Department of Basic Education have partnered with SAICA to host the camps. In 2025, we hope to see at least two big corporates on board to offer their support. Those interested in helping can email Gugu Makhanya at gugum@saica.co.za. Let us work together to pave the way for sustainable progress and prosperity in the South African economy.’
