Learn by Example

By: Thuli Dube 14 September 2005

“We are trying to create an environment that influences learners to have an interest in aviation, maths and science,” said Dr Mathume Bopape, the Executive Director of the South African Mathematics Foundation (SAMF).

SAMF has been operational for five years. It was developed for various reasons such as providing information and guidance on careers in mathematics and to bring attention to learners on the utility and applicability of mathematics. This year’s exhibition was held at the Sci-Bono Discovery Centre in Newtown Johannesburg. The event took place between 5 – 9 September 2005.

Mathematics week was first introduced during the World Mathematics year 2000, with the support of the Department of Education. The then Minister Kadar Asmal suggested that, if successful, it should become an annual event. The South African National Committee for the International Mathematical Union (IMU) declared the second week of September every year as National Mathematics Week.

The activities during Mathematics Week highlight the impact of Mathematics on people’s daily lives and emphasise the importance of Mathematics as a foundation for careers in science, technology and managerial jobs.

The South African Air Force had the privilege of being at the exhibition. There were various other interesting exhibition stands, which included tertiary institutions, publishers, SAMF, Telkom Foundation, South African Airways and Casio.

SAAF’s contribution to the exhibition and mathematics week was to tell the learners about Pilot/Navigator training and the Phases of training.

The aim for this particular exhibition was to show learners who have dreams that they can also make their dreams come true. The environment was set so the learners could meet people who are passionate about their careers and learn from that.

Dr Bopape continued to say, “the process of interesting the learners is not as fast and effective as was expected, but we are trying to carry the learners into maturity.”