When it comes to mathematics and science scores, South Africa has failed to make significant gains, with the rate of improvement moving at a snail’s pace.

This is according to results contained in the “2019 Trends in International Mathematics and Science Study” (TIMSS), which assesses the maths and science knowledge of fourth and eighth grade learners around the world. In SA, the assessment is conducted among grade five and grade nine learners in public and independent schools.

The TIMSS survey was released yesterday by Department of Basic Education (DBE) minister Angie Motshekga and the Human Sciences Research Council.