The proportion of the matric class writing maths has been decreasing since 2009. For the past 4 years, one-third of learners wrote the NSC maths exams.

In 2021 and 2022, 80% did not pass the subject with 50% or more. In 2023, that improved to 73%. But, even fewer achieved the 60% needed for a science, technology, or engineering degree.

In 2021, for example, only 13% scored 60% or more in maths. This year, 16% achieved a 60% in maths, which is higher than the target of 40,355 set by the Department of Basic Education for 2024.

However, the low number of learners taking maths puts a damper on the government’s plan to have 450,000 learners eligible to study maths and science at university by 2030.

In 2023, only 262,016 learners wrote maths, which is about 1,500 more than in 2022. However, a lot of work will need to be done in the next seven years to meet the target.