Dedicated to bolstering education outcomes, Basic Education Director-General Mr Mathanzima Mweli is monitoring and supporting the innovative Weekend Learner Support Programme in South Africa.
On 22 April 2023, DG Mweli made his first visit to the Bohlabela District in the Mpumalanga Province. Here, he chaired a meeting with provincial and district management, lauding Bohlabela District’s improvement in NSC results for the Class of 2022. The meeting covered various topics including target setting, the implementation of inclusive learning, the Learner Recovery Programme, and e-learning. A focus on underperforming schools and strategies for differentiated support also took the spotlight.
Aiming high, the district set a target of 85% for the Class of 2023, despite a drop in class enrolment. The proactive Learner Support Programme, initiated at the start of the school calendar year, has begun to show positive outcomes. It encompasses residential and walk-in camps, and notably, independent schools have also been incorporated.
DG Mweli and team toured 12 schools to appreciate and motivate the hard-working teachers and learners. Recognising the unique challenges brought about by COVID-19, DG Mweli encouraged continuous support for the Class of 2023.
Continuing his commitment to the Weekend Learner Support Programme, DG Mweli, accompanied by Mrs Ramohapi, visited Johannesburg West, Gauteng, on 6 May 2023. They commended the district’s dedicated leadership that achieved the district’s ranking as number one in Gauteng and third nationally.
Key points of discussion included strategies for increasing performance, comprehensive data analysis, and action plans for non-performing HODs and teachers. Differentiated learner and school support will continue with the ambitious targets of 100% for all languages and students.
Gratitude and praise were extended to DG Mweli from District Director Mr Lehlohonolo Ramokhoase and Gauteng Education HOD Mr Edward Mosuwe for his motivating visit and unwavering support.
The Weekend Learner Support Programme, including Winter, Spring, and Last Push initiatives, is set to continue across provinces, marking a new chapter in the South African education system.