SAMF and Komatsu Forge Partnership to Empower Maths Education

The South African Mathematics Foundation (SAMF) is delighted to announce a transformative partnership with Komatsu, focused on enhancing mathematics education for both teachers and learners from six districts where Komatsu has operations. This collaboration, a strategic blend of resources and expertise, aims to uplift mathematics teaching and learning quality while inspiring a renewed interest in the subject among young South Africans.

Through the Komatsu Adopted Schools Mathematics Programme, SAMF has initiated an impactful online Mathematics Problem Solving Course in partnership with Limina Educational Services. To date, 286 teachers from Mopani and Waterberg in Limpopo, Nkangala in Mpumalanga and John Taolo, Namakwa and ZF Mgcawu in the Northern Cape, have completed the course, gaining essential skills to foster higher-quality mathematics education. The programme is especially active in Mopani, where 38% of the teachers who received awards are from this district, demonstrating Komatsu's significant footprint in areas where their operations are based.

The partnership's support also extends to high school learners. With Komatsu’s involvement, 120 schools and 4,616 learners participated in the 2024 South African Mathematics Olympiad (SAMO). An impressive 441 learners advanced to the second round, with 139 of these learners receiving accolades for their outstanding achievements, reflecting Komatsu and SAMF’s shared commitment to nurturing young mathematical talent.

In addition to professional development and academic competitions, the partnership has fostered greater community engagement with mathematics. Through on-site visits and community roadshows, SAMF representatives introduced the programme across the districts, directly engaging with students, district officials, and educators.

Prof Kerstin Jordaan, SAMF’s Executive Director commented, “This partnership with Komatsu is a significant milestone in our mission to promote mathematics as a gateway to success for all South Africans. Together, we are not only raising the standard of mathematics education but are also inspiring a generation of future problem solvers and critical thinkers.”

Through these collaborative efforts, SAMF and Komatsu are paving the way for sustainable improvements in South African mathematics education, benefiting both teachers and students in the process. This partnership underscores SAMF’s ongoing dedication to mathematics education and advocacy, as well as Komatsu’s commitment to making a positive difference in the communities it serves.

Teachers are reminded that they can now register their learners for the South African Mathematics Challenge for Grades 4 to 7, and the Old Mutual South African Mathematics Olympiad for Grades 8 to 12. For more information visit www.samf.ac.za.