In response to calls for abolition, the Department of Basic Education emphasized the necessity of implementing reforms within the Mathematical Literacy course.
The Department stated that the discussion surrounding Mathematical Literacy should not be reduced to a question of its complete cancellation. It noted that any changes to the curriculum must take into account the diverse needs of learners and the needs of the country.
Responding to comments by former Minister of Education Naledi Pandor regarding Mathematical Literacy, the department reported that the process of reforming the curriculum is ongoing. Currently, an assessment is being conducted to determine the alignment of the curriculum with the educational, economic, and developmental needs of South Africa.
It was stressed that Mathematical Literacy serves a specific function by providing learners with skills in solving mathematical problems, financial knowledge, and problem-solving abilities applicable in daily life.
The Department clarified that the subjects Mathematics, Technical Mathematics, and Mathematical Literacy are designed for different purposes and career paths. Mathematics supports fields such as science, healthcare, engineering, finance, and technology, while Technical Mathematics provides skills for technical and vocational professions.
Any review of these three subjects must consider aspects of curriculum development, teacher availability, progression requirements, university admission criteria, and economic needs.
Furthermore, the department believes it is necessary to focus on supporting and enabling learners who are capable of studying Mathematics to do so.
According to the department's position, their approach is not to view Mathematical Literacy as a problem, but rather to verify whether the existing system provides learners with the strongest possible mathematical foundation.
Acting Director of Communications Terence Hala stated that the department will not frame the political issue solely as one of abolishing Mathematical Literacy.
Hala added that the department's main focus remains on expanding meaningful access to Mathematics while simultaneously improving the teaching and learning process across the entire education system.