South Africa's Mathematics Education Crisis: Solutions with K2U's Greg Shapiro

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In this interview with Radio Cape Pulpit, Greg Shapiro, the founder of K2U, sheds light on the critical state of mathematics education in South Africa. He reveals a staggering statistic: over one million children are leaving school each year without the math skills required for STEM subjects. Shapiro emphasizes that this crisis contributes significantly to a high youth unemployment rate, arguing that the country cannot survive without a skilled workforce.

Greg shares his personal story of academic struggle and credits a mentor for teaching him that mathematics is a language. This experience became the foundation for K2U, which stands for "Knowledge to Understanding." The company's unique, online-based method focuses on mastering five essential fundamentals, helping students catch up quickly and confidently.

K2U offers a free, non-obligatory diagnostic assessment to help parents determine their child's readiness for high school mathematics. The goal is to identify and fill learning gaps, which can often be resolved in a matter of months. Shapiro confidently states that with consistent effort—just 30 minutes a day—most students can achieve a distinction in Matric.

The interview also highlights the Bundi Foundation, a non-profit initiative by K2U to train tutors from financially challenged schools. By empowering young people with the skills to teach math, the foundation aims to bring about systemic change and provide much-needed opportunities in disadvantaged communities.
10 Sep 2025 English South Africa Religion & Spirituality · Christianity

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