About CASME
CASME, the Centre for the Advancement of Science and Mathematics Education, is a dynamic force dedicated to revolutionizing STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) education. At the heart of our mission is a commitment to fostering innovation and excellence in teaching. We strive to empower educators and students alike through cutting-edge programs in coding, robotics, and other STEM disciplines. With a vision to inspire a new generation of thinkers and problem-solvers, CASME is actively shaping the future of education. Explore our initiatives, discover our impact, and join us in the transformative journey towards a world where every learner is equipped with the skills to thrive in the evolving landscape of science and technology.
Vision
To be a World Class centre through changing The Lives of Learners through Quality and Innovative Mathematics and Science Education.
Mission
To provide quality teacher professional development opportunities for Mathematics and Science education in under-resourced and rural schools in South Africa.
CASME SUBSCRIBES AND ASPIRES TO LIVE OUT THE FOLLOWING VALUES:
Integrity – we are passionate about our work and we do it with honesty, transparency and scrupulous professionalism
Humanity – we add compassion and kindness to our work within the spirit of Ubuntu
Resourcefulness – we aspire to lead in the open sharing of knowledge and expertise
Service Excellence – we provide a service which delivers on our promise.
The History of CASME
The critical shortage of high-level skills in South Africa, particularly in the fields of technology and science, was a matter of growing concern among educationists, academics, business and industry leaders during the seventies and early eighties.
The historical imbalances of the apartheid education system and the associated unfair labour practices led to a mal-distribution of skills. This had the result that some 95% of the country’s scientific and technological skills were being drawn from the privileged segment of the population only.
The Board of Shell SA were aware that the future development of the country – as well as the continuing success of Shell – depended on a growing supply of skilled people. In particular, there was an urgent need for redress to enable people of colour to acquire the necessary skills and qualifications to perform engineering and technical jobs, and to play a leading role in decision-making. The weak link in this supply chain was the poor quality of Maths and Science education, particularly at the then ‘black’ schools.
A survey commissioned by Shell in 1982 into private sector education projects reinforced the conviction that there was a growing need to extend Shell’s support in these fields, augmented by programmes in communication skills.
Durban was chosen as an ideal location because of the proximity of tertiary education facilities and employment opportunities, the absence of competing projects, the favourable attitude of educationists and the size of the target community.
The Shell Science Pilot Project was launched on 1st January 1985 at the University of Natal’s Durban campus. The project was formalised in October of that year at the inaugural meeting of the Board of Trustees and the registration of the Shell Science and Mathematics Resource Centre Educational Trust.
The broad objectives of the Trust were to improve the quality of Science and Mathematics education in KwaZulu-Natal among secondary school teachers and students, and to promote an awareness of the importance of Science and Maths in the general community.
In-service training for Maths and Science teachers has been a cornerstone of the Centre’s activities since its establishment in 1985.

The dedication and commitment of the CASME team to revolutionize STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) education is truly commendable. Through various initiatives and programs, CASME has consistently demonstrated a genuine passion for making a meaningful difference in the education sector.
Meet the Team
Our Trustees

Prof Sibusiso Moyo
Chair of the Board

Mr Henre Benson
Deputy Chairperson

Dr Shamrita Bhikha
Independent Consultant: Education, Training and Development

Prof Magnate Ntombela
Principal at MANCOSA; Regional Director KwaZulu-Natal, University of South Africa (Retired)

Prof Bheki Khuzwayo
Director for the School of Science & Mathematics Education (SSME): Faculty of Education, University of the Western Cape
Management

Mbongiseni Gumede
Director

Pathisizwe Mahlabela
Academic Manager

Mduduzi Biyela
Senior Projects Manager

Fynall Van Rooy
Finance & Office Manager

Sizwe Khumalo
Resource Centre Manager/Projects Administrator
Academic Staff

Sandile Hlongwane
Project Manager

Sofiah Essop
eLearning Specialist

Bonginkosi Zikhali
Science2Go Facilitator (Gqeberha)

Nonkululeko Sibisi
FET Physical Science Facilitator

Zenzele Ntshalintshali
FET Mathematics Facilitator
Administrators, Lab Assistants and Drivers

Linda Memela
Mobile Lab Assistant

Joseph Luthuli
Mobile Lab Assistant

Njabulo Motagane
Mobile Lab Assistant

Tebogo Qwabe
Resource Centre Administrator/Mobile Lab Assistant

Nozipho Luthuli
Receptionist

Rose Mfeke
General Worker

Nompilo Mbathe
Data Clerk & Office Resource Administrator

Razia Ndlovu
Digital & Marketing Assistant
Resource Centre Lab Assistants

Thandiwe Khumalo

Sinenhlanhla Xulu
