Free State hosts seminar on Mathematics, Science and Technology grant

The Department of Basic Education recently hosted a two-day interprovincial seminar focusing on the Mathematics, Science and Technology (MST) Conditional Grant. This important event took place in Phuthaditjhaba and Bethlehem, in the Free State province, from the 16th to the 17th of September 2025. The seminar highlighted the Department’s commitment to meeting the MST targets, which are clearly outlined in Chapter 9 of the National education framework, aiming to boost these crucial subjects in our schools.

Detailed information about the seminar

• Event type: Interprovincial seminar focusing on the Mathematics, Science and Technology (MST) Conditional Grant.
• Date: 16-17 September 2025.
• Location: Phuthaditjhaba and Bethlehem, Free State province, South Africa.
• Organising body: The Department of Basic Education (DBE). More about our work can be found on our official website: Department of Basic Education.
• People involved: The specific names and positions of individuals who attended or presented at the seminar were not specified in the provided information. However, such events typically involve provincial education officials, subject advisors, school principals, and other stakeholders committed to enhancing MST education.
• Purpose: To discuss and align strategies for the effective implementation and utilisation of the MST Conditional Grant, ensuring it addresses the national MST targets set out in Chapter 9 of relevant policy documents. This grant is a key tool for improving the quality of teaching and learning in these vital subjects across the country.

Departmental activities on enhancing Mathematics, Science, and Technology

The Department of Basic Education (DBE) is actively dedicated to strengthening the teaching and learning of Mathematics, Science, and Technology (MST) in schools across South Africa. The recent interprovincial seminar held in the Free State is a prime example of this ongoing commitment. This two-day gathering in Phuthaditjhaba and Bethlehem brought together various stakeholders to discuss the effective use of the MST Conditional Grant.

This grant is specifically designed to provide financial support to provinces for initiatives aimed at improving MST education. This includes, but is not limited to, enhancing teacher development, providing modern teaching and learning resources, and upgrading school laboratories and technology infrastructure. The seminar served as a critical platform for provincial education departments to share best practices, discuss challenges, and strategise on how to best align their efforts with the national MST targets.

By focusing on these key subjects, the DBE aims to equip our learners with the skills necessary for future careers and to contribute meaningfully to the country’s economic growth and innovation. Events like these foster collaboration and ensure that the funds allocated through the Conditional Grant are used efficiently and effectively to make a tangible difference in classrooms nationwide. We encourage everyone to stay informed about our various initiatives and activities by visiting our news portal: More Department Activities.

Questions and answers for the public

1. What is the Mathematics, Science and Technology (MST) Conditional Grant?
   The MST Conditional Grant is a specific allocation of funds from the national government to provincial education departments. It is intended to support and improve the teaching and learning of Mathematics, Science, and Technology subjects in schools across the country.
2. Who benefits from the MST Conditional Grant?
   Ultimately, the learners in South African schools benefit from this grant as it helps provide better resources, improved teaching methods, and enhanced facilities in MST subjects. Schools and teachers also benefit through development programmes and access to better equipment.
3. What are the main goals of the MST Conditional Grant?
   The grant aims to address specific targets outlined in Chapter 9 of the national education framework. These targets typically involve improving learner performance in MST, increasing the number of learners taking these subjects, and enhancing the quality of MST teaching.
4. How can my child’s school apply for or benefit from this grant?
   The grant is disbursed to provincial education departments, who then allocate funds to schools based on specific criteria and needs. Schools usually apply through their provincial department. Parents should engage with their school management to understand how their school accesses and utilises such funds.
5. What was the purpose of the interprovincial seminar in the Free State?
   The seminar brought together representatives from different provinces to discuss strategies, share successful approaches, and align their plans for the effective implementation and utilisation of the MST Conditional Grant. It was a platform for collaboration and strategic planning.
6. When and where did this seminar take place?
   The seminar was held from 16-17 September 2025 in Phuthaditjhaba and Bethlehem, both located in the Free State province.
7. Why are Mathematics, Science, and Technology so important in education?
   These subjects are crucial for developing critical thinking, problem-solving skills, and preparing learners for a wide range of future careers in a rapidly evolving global economy. Strong MST foundations are essential for innovation and national development.
8. Where can I find more information about the Department of Basic Education’s initiatives?
   You can find comprehensive information about our policies, programmes, and various activities by visiting our official website at www.education.gov.za, or for news and updates, check schoolclick.co.za/category/news/.
9. Will there be more such seminars in the future?
   While specific dates for future seminars are not yet announced, the Department of Basic Education regularly organises workshops, seminars, and conferences as part of its ongoing efforts to improve education quality and share best practices across provinces.