Learners’ performance rated among worst in the world—again

The 2019 Trends in International Mathematics and Science Study released on 8 December contains shocking findings for science and mathematics competency in South African schools.

The TIMSS study is carried out every four years. Northern Hemisphere countries run the study between April and June of the assessed year, and Southern Hemisphere countries in October to November.

South African grade nine learners—averaging 14 to 15 years old—scored second lowest in mathematics and worst for science achievement of 39 countries that took part in that study.