The Indian Cultural Centre in Johannesburg plans to provide mathematics tuitions to South African learners apart from its usual assistance given in art subjects.
Consul General of India K J Srinivasa gave details ofthe plan but expressed concern that despite some improvement over previous years, there was still a lot to be done for Mathematics and Science teaching.
"We received approaches from both Indian expatriate and South African Indian teachers about extending the range of classes at our Cultural Centre so that they could give something back to the local community," Srinivasa told PTI.
"The plan is to run classes at weekends for learners, starting in February, when they have settled into the new academic year at their schools," Srinivasa said.
Until now, classes at the Cultural Centre at the Consular General of India have been held in dance, music and Hindi as a language.
"We will facilitate the logistics for the addition of Mathematics to add a new dimension to the objectives of the Cultural Centre, which is designed to be used as a community benefit facility," Srinivasa said.
"The teachers intend to train learners not necessarily in the curriculum they are following, but rather to use fundamental techniques and principles to allow them a better understanding of Mathematics," he said.
Initially, two teachers will offer three-hour session each weekend, and this could be expanded depending on demand.
The move has been welcomed by some learners who will start their final year of schooling next week. It comes as South African education authorities announced the results of the 2016 academic year.
"I really struggled through Maths in Grade 11 last year, so I am looking forward to getting some extra tuition at the Consulate this year while I try to finish off well so that I can go to university next year," said Fatima Choonara, who has already negotiated plans for transport to the venue when the classes start.
Aarti Singh, who will be in Grade 11 this year, said she hoped that there would be provision for her level as well at the classes.
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