Awqaf SA launches 11th annual maths workshop series for South African learners

Awqaf SA will launch its annual Maths Workshop series this weekend, targeting Grade 10 to 12 learners across South Africa.

Now in its 11th year, the programme provides additional maths support to learners in areas including Soweto, Ladysmith, Mitchells Plain and Khayelitsha. The initiative is a collaboration with the Western Cape Education Department and several participating schools.

Awqaf SA chief executive Mickaeel Collier said the workshops have continued to attract strong attendance over the years.

“The high attendance numbers over the past decade show that the workshops are making their mark,” Collier said. “As a community-based organisation, our role is to fill the gaps when the system is under pressure.”

He said the programme is aimed at improving outcomes in a subject that remains a major barrier for many learners.

“Careers of the future, such as STEM, require maths,” Collier said. “Poor learner performance widens the skills gap and contributes to youth unemployment.”

Maths facilitator Mohammad Khota said the workshops focus on preparation and mindset ahead of exams.

“The Awqaf SA workshop series gives learners the strategy and confidence to approach their exams like a war room,” Khota said. “We focus on breaking down difficult concepts so learners can apply them in exams.”

Collier said Khota has been central to the programme’s delivery and impact.

“Through his approach, thousands of learners have changed how they see maths,” Collier said, “he brings energy into the classroom and makes the subject more accessible to those in need.”

Last year's series reached about 85,000 learners, with 700 learners benefiting at Spine Road High School from a single session. 

"The demand has grown every year," Collier said. “We are seeing more schools and learners engaging with the programme.” 

Schools involved include Spine Road High School, Portland's High School and Luhlaza High School.

Armani Rahman, a former participant, said the programme helped improve her performance.

“I was able to improve my maths results and build confidence going into matric,” Rahman said.

She scored 97% and is now studying medicine.

Another former learner, Jayda Lee Pillay of Strandfontein High School, said, “The workshops helped me understand topics I previously struggled with.”

She scored 87% and plans to study actuarial science at the University of Cape Town.

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