About Hisabati South Africa
Mathematics Education for a Better South Africa
Mission
To transform mathematics education in South Africa into a powerful engine for human development, equipping learners, youth, and teachers with the skills, confidence, and purpose to build a more just, prosperous, and climate-resilient nation.
Vision
A South Africa in which every young person, regardless of province, language, or economic circumstance, can harness the power of mathematical thinking to improve their own life and the life of their community.
Theory of Change
If we equip South African mathematics teachers with deep subject knowledge and modern pedagogy, AND engage learners with relevant, joyful mathematical content anchored in South African life, AND connect youth to the real challenges facing our country and planet, THEN mathematics education becomes a driver of both individual opportunity and national renewal.
Our Values
Ubuntu in Learning
I am because we learn together. Mathematics is not a solitary pursuit but a communal one.
Equity First
We design for learners in under-resourced township and rural schools who need us most.
Rigour with Joy
Mathematical excellence and genuine curiosity are not in tension; we cultivate both.
Open Knowledge
All core content is free, openly licensed (Creative Commons), and will be available in all 11 official languages.
Evidence-Driven
Every programme is designed with evaluation in mind. We publish independent evaluations openly.
Climate Consciousness
We embed South Africa’s environmental future and the Just Energy Transition into every level of our curriculum.
The Challenge We Face
South Africa’s mathematics outcomes are among the most troubling in the world for a middle-income country. In the 2023 Annual National Assessments, fewer than 30% of Grade 9 learners achieved adequate proficiency. Youth unemployment for 15–24 year olds exceeds 60% — the highest in the G20. Mathematics underpins every growth sector in the South African economy and is the gateway qualification for university.
Hisabati exists to close this gap at national scale through three integrated pillars: LearnMath, TeachMath, and SolveMath.