Polokwane – 15 September 2025 - Historic results demonstrate measurable Foundation Phase improvements across 30 schools, with 120 outstanding educators recognised for excellence
Funda Wande, in partnership with the Limpopo Department of Education, today unveiled compelling new evidence demonstrating significant Foundation Phase literacy and numeracy improvements across 30 schools in the province – marking a breakthrough in addressing South Africa's learning crisis.
The findings, presented at the prestigious Fusion Boutique Hotel in Polokwane, represent a milestone achievement in the journey toward ensuring every child can read for meaning and calculate with confidence by age 10.
Key Research Findings
The comprehensive midline study reveals remarkable progress from baseline measurements:
Literacy Achievements:
Numeracy Breakthroughs:
"This research doesn't just give us numbers – it proves what's possible when evidence, policy, and practice align," said Sihle-Isipho Bikitsha, Head of Research and Development at Funda Wande. "Limpopo has shown that data-driven interventions can be scaled for transformational impact across entire school systems."
Celebrating Educational Excellence
The event recognised 120 outstanding teachers and principals whose dedication and leadership have driven classroom transformation. These educators represent the heart of South Africa's educational renewal, demonstrating that with proper support and evidence-based approaches, remarkable progress is achievable.
Phumi Nhlapo, CEO of Funda Wande, emphasised: "Today we celebrate not just data points, but the dreams and futures of thousands of Limpopo children. These teachers and schools have proven that excellence in Foundation Phase education is not just an aspiration – it's an achievable reality."
Building Systemic Change
The launch featured a high-level panel discussion, "Beyond the Data: Partnerships that Drive Systemic Change," bringing together:
Dr Simelane, Deputy Director General (Acting), delivered the keynote address, highlighting the provincial commitment to scaling these evidence-based interventions across Limpopo's education system.
Research Methodology & Impact
The independent longitudinal study tracks learner achievement over three years:
This comprehensive approach provides crucial evidence for informing provincial and national strategies for early grade learning, directly supporting alignment with Department of Basic Education curriculum expectations and CAPS policy implementation.
Looking Forward
The programme's success in Limpopo provides a blueprint for national scaling. Key focus areas include:
Chief Director Solly Mabusela (Curriculum) and Chief Director Ntombi Mhlaba (Teacher Development) committed to supporting the expansion of these proven interventions across the province.
About the Programme
Funda Wande's mission is to test and scale solutions that enable children to read for meaning and calculate with confidence by age 10. The organisation works in partnership with provincial education departments, schools, and communities to implement evidence-based interventions that drive measurable learning outcomes.
The two-day programme concludes with joint school visits, allowing stakeholders to witness classroom transformation first-hand and see the research findings in action.
MEDIA OPPORTUNITIES:
Media Contacts:
Taynita Harilal | media@jtcomms.co.za | 071 873 0243
For Funda Wanda
Ambeswa Mgandela | ambeswa@fundawande.org | 081 332 2737
High-resolution images, data visualisations, and additional research materials available on request.
Funda Wande is supported by the Allan Gray Philanthropy South Africa (AGPSA), Prevail Fund, Gates Foundation, Maitri Trust, Oppenheimer Memorial Trust and FEM Education Foundation (FEMEF).
