Mathematics Skills in South Africa: Data Reliability, Quantifying the Undersupply, and Projecting the Future

ABSTRACT

South Africa enjoys access to reliable data on mathematics skills among youths, skills which are vital for postschool opportunities and national development. But the data are underutilised and the available research could be communicated better. This article discusses several perceptions not supported by evidence. It presents new evidence confirming two things. Firstly, despite improvements in the schooling system, the supply of mathematics skills is still below present levels of university demand. Secondly, the supply of good mathematics skills is better in rural than urban parts of the country, which is counterintuitive and important for planning expansion to this supply.