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

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.

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.