This National Science Week we call upon the Minister of Science and Technology, Derek Hanekom, to ensure that our rural schools are receiving the necessary support when it comes to teaching science and technology in their classrooms considering past imbalances.

IFP Spokesperson on Education, Mr Alfred Mpontshane, MP, said, "Many rural schools lack the learning resources required to teach learners in our physical sciences. It is the responsibility of the Department of Science and Technology to make sure that learners in rural schools are well equipped in science and technology. It is shocking that many Grade 12 learners are computer illiterate due to lack of access to science and technology. Teachers are expected to teach science at schools without having the required laboratories or even basic chemistry equipment."

Mpontshane further stated that, "The Minister must establish science centres that will serve as skills training facilities for teachers as well as our unemployed youth in all current technologies. We must empower our youth to be technology savvy. Science Expos and career exhibitions should also take place in rural areas," concluded Mpontshane.

The IFP calls on the Minister to ensure that projects like the R6-million Cofimvaba School District Technology Project are extended to other rural areas.

Furthermore, the Department of Basic Education as well as the Department of Energy must work closely with the Department of Science and Technology in ensuring that rural schools have access to electricity, which is still a major challenge in many rural areas.

Issued by:

IFP Spokesperson on Education, Mr Alfred Mpontshane, MP, 083 441 6201

or contact

IFP Parliamentary Caucus Media Liaison Officer, Mr Phendulani Biyase, 073 024 5675