ED RICHARDSON THE NATIONAL Ports Authority (NPA) is funding a mathematics support project in the Eastern Cape. Spokesperson for the department of Science and Technology Nelvis Qekema says the project follows problems the NPA experienced in recruiting suitably qualified people for the maritime industry. “This lack of required skills arises because the schooling system is not producing enough candidates with strong higher grade mathematics passes. “The NPA has adopted eight schools in the Eastern Cape. These schools are helped with science equipment and facilities to create a conducive environment for teaching and learning mathematics, science and technology,” says Qekema. Career guidance The NPA has also forged a partnership with the Cape Peninsula University of Technology to run workshops and offer career guidance in maritime studies for schools. Matric students who have obtained a good symbol in Mathematics stand a chance of obtaining scholarships to do marine studies at higher education level. “These studies are important because the Eastern Cape has two harbours, and a third one is being developed at Ngqura,” he says.
