If you ever struggled with Maths at school, then you are not alone. We can’t all solve math problems at the same pace that Einstein did – we can however change up the algorithm in our brain, allowing us to tackle problems with a new approach that yields differential responses in the various children that we teach. That is why we are so proud to have Thula running the Maths Lab at Ukhanyo Primary School. She is 100% dedicated to helping children that struggle with Maths overcome their challenges with the subject and improve their overall skills.

“I am very passionate about what I do because when I was at school – I always struggled with Maths. To be able to give back by helping children grasp key concepts through interactive learning – is the ultimate experience. I hope I am the kind of support I never had.” – Thula Maths Lab Programme Leader

The Maths Lab at Ukhanyo Primary School is run by Thula – she has been running various initiatives for Masicorp’s community upliftment projects at Ukhanyo since 2015 and she strongly shares our quest to build an industry-leading education charity in Cape Town. We know that our programmes have the power to uplift people and help them achieve a sustainable future – by providing them with the tools to do so.

The Maths Lab is a place of safety and security for children who attend Ukhanyo Primary School. Functioning much like an oasis and a home away from home, we are inspired by the children that participate in these afterschool activities to help them make the most of their education.

Masicorp family, please meet Akhanya – a Future South African Doctor in the making. Akhanya is a rising star at Ukhanyo Primary School. He is a perfect example of just one of the many children that have benefitted from the work we do to help children grasp mathematical concepts and apply them.

Late last year -the Maths Lab joined the OLICO Two-Minute-Tango times-tables challenge and participated with various primary schools around the country. Akhanya’s lightning-quick responses coupled with dedicated support from all the staff at the Maths Lab saw him bagging the first prize in his grade. We asked him what he wants to be when he has left school years behind and he said a doctor – without a doubt.

We caught up with Akhanya and we got to know this bright young man a little bit better. It’s brilliant to see such incredible drive in a learner. We asked him a few questions regarding his future and the Olico Maths virtual quiz, here’s what he had to say:

1. What do you like about Math?

“I love numbers and I also love counting. I want to know about numbers because they ever end”.

2.Why do you like coming to the Maths Lab?

“I love coming to the Maths Lab because I love mathematics very much. I am always interested in doing more and I want to know more about numbers”.

3. How did you practice for the OLICO competition?

“We practiced together at the Maths Lab using flashcards and doing 1-minute speed drills and when I got home, I would continue practicing on the two-minute tango app on my mother’s cell phone. I put more time into practicing because I wanted to be quick”.

4. How do you feel about winning the competition for your entire Grade in the country?

“I feel very excited that I won, I came first from all the grade 6’s that entered from other provinces. When we entered the competition, I got home and told my mom that I want to win it so that she can be proud of me”.

We have no doubt in our minds that Akhanya’s mom is extremely proud of her talented son that is making waves in Maths and the future of medicine here in South Africa.

If you want to give Maths momentum in Masi and help children reach their full potential in life, then support our work here.