By Lynn Glover | Chief Executive Officer
When we first dreamed up Izibalo, we knew one thing for certain: mathematics changes futures. In South Africa, fewer than 2 in 10 learners pass pure mathematics in Grade 12 (age 18-19) Too often, learners are encouraged to switch to mathematical literacy as early as Grade 10, not because they lack potential, but because of overcrowded classrooms, limited support, and discouragement make the subject feel out of reach despite this choice closing doors. Pure mathematics is the gateway to careers in engineering, medicine, and science. It builds resilience, discipline, and problem-solving skills that stretch far beyond the classroom.
That is why Izibalo was born. Our name means “mathematics” or “counting” in isiXhosa and from thevery beginning in 2022, our mission has been clear: to ensure that learners in under-resourced schools are not left behind. We started small, with a pilot project at Gompo Library. There, alongside our COO, Edumisa Mtoli, and our very first tutors, young, unemployed graduates from the community, we saw the difference personalised maths support could make.
From those early days in Duncan Village, Gompo, and Buffalo Flats, South Africa, Izibalo began to grow.This was proof that our model was not only working, but inspiring others.
Since then, Izibalo has reached over 350 learners and supported dozens of volunteers and young tutors. Our model combines daily maths tutoring, mentorship, play-based learning, and educator upskilling, all underpinned by strong community partnerships.
Maths Tutoring Centre (Grade 8–12): Fully resourced, solar-powered container classroom that provides intensive maths tutoring in small groups, using a 1:8 tutor-to-learner ratio.Numeracy Project (Grade 1–3): Building the early foundations of number sense and problemsolving so that learners start their maths journey with confidence, using a 1:4 tutor-to-learner
ratio.
At the heart of Izibalo is not just maths, it’s people. We believe in creating opportunities for unemployed graduates and youth, training them as tutors, and equipping them with the professional skills to one day further their careers. We believe in parents, teachers, and communities working together to raise the next generation of problem solvers. Most importantly, we believe in the children themselves and their ability to not just “get through” maths, but to thrive in it.
Looking back at our journey, I am humbled by how far we have come in such a short time. Looking ahead, I am energised by how much more we can achieve. With every learner who stays in pure maths, we are shaping future engineers, doctors, scientists, and teachers. With every tutor we train, we are investing in South Africa’s future workforce. With every partnership, we are proving that change is possible when a community comes together.
Izibalo is not just about doing maths. It is about building futures and we are only just getting started.
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