Komatsu Partnership Sparks Transformational Growth in Mathematics Education

In a nation where the teaching and learning of mathematics often face systemic challenges, a remarkable story of transformation is unfolding. The South African Mathematics Foundation (SAMF), in partnership with the Komatsu Foundation Trust (Komatsu), is leading an initiative that is not only changing attitudes toward mathematics but also delivering measurable results in classrooms across the country. 

Now in its second year, the Komatsu Adopted Schools Mathematics Programme is built around a dual focus: strengthening teachers and supporting learners. At its core is the Mathematics Problem Solving (MPS) Course, an online, accredited professional development programme facilitated by Limina Educational Services and tailored for high school teachers. In 2025, 289 teachers have already enrolled in the course, which equips them with innovative strategies to integrate non-routine problem solving into everyday teaching. This follows the successful completion of the 2024 programme by 286 teachers. 

Running in parallel is the Learner Development Programme, which targets Grade 10 to 12 learners from the same schools. Here, the goal is simple yet ambitious: to boost learners' mathematical confidence and performance. This is achieved through structured workshops, targeted monitoring visits, and celebratory award ceremonies—all of which help learners see mathematics not as an obstacle, but as an opportunity. 

This year, the programme introduces an exciting incentive for teachers who go above and beyond. Top-performing participants in the MPS Course will be sponsored to attend the 2025 African Chapter of the International Congress of Mathematics Education (AFRICME7), to be held at the University of the Witwatersrand from 15 to 18 July. The congress will bring together leading African and international scholars to share cutting-edge research and practical insights into mathematics education. Its rich programme includes symposia, teacher workshops, and professional development opportunities designed to inspire and elevate classroom practice. 

The impact of this integrated approach is already evident in the results. In 2024, 65 schools and 4,616 learners participated in the first round of the South African Mathematics Olympiad (SAMO). By 2025, these numbers had surged to 156 schools and 10,256 learners. That represents a 140% increase in schools and a 122% rise in learner participation—clear signs of growing enthusiasm and opportunity. 

Even more striking is the performance in Round 2 of the Olympiad. In 2024, 441 learners from 38 schools advanced. In 2025, that number more than doubled to 928 learners from 98 schools, marking a 158% increase in school representation and a 111% rise in learner qualification. These figures reflect not only greater participation, but genuine growth in problem-solving skills and mathematical readiness. 

This initiative is currently making a significant impact in Mopani and Waterberg (Limpopo), Nkangala (Mpumalanga), and the Northern Cape districts of John Taolo Gaetsewe, Namakwa and ZF Mgcawu. With Komatsu’s commitment to uplifting the communities in which it operates, the partnership continues to invest in long-term educational change, grounded in equity and excellence. 

Prof Seithuti Moshokoa, Executive Director of the SAMF, reflects on the journey: “In just two years, we’ve seen what’s possible when teachers are empowered, learners are supported, and partners like Komatsu bring their full commitment to the cause. With the added opportunity for top teachers to attend AFRICME7, we are not only raising standards locally but connecting our educators to the broader African and global community.” 

Accredited by the South African Council for Educators (SACE), the MPS Course not only earns participants professional development points but also contributes to a larger vision—one where mathematics education is accessible, relevant, and transformative. 

This is more than a programme. It’s a movement towards mathematical confidence and competence, where every learner and every teacher have a chance to succeed. 

The SAMF team visited the Waterberg in the Palala Cluster to introduce the Komatsu Adopted Schools Mathematics Programme.