Somlomo ... [Deputy Speaker] ... Advances in science and technology depend on a solid foundation at school level. Without a thorough foundation in mathematics, careers in science, engineering and technology will be closed to young learners, the majority of whom are from disadvantaged backgrounds.
The ANC congratulates the City of eThekwini on hosting the 10th Invitational World Youth Mathematics Intercity Competition from 5 July 2009 to 10 July 2009 at the Durban City Hall, in collaboration with the Association for Mathematics Education of South Africa.
Over 300 junior high school students representing 19 countries from all over the world converged in Durban to participate in the competition. This presents an opportunity for young people not only to participate in a friendly way, but also to share experiences, cement international friendships and foster mutual understanding.
South Africa was represented by 141 schools from the eThekwini Municipality, with eight of those schools falling under the Department of Education's Dinaledi schools programme. Thank you. [Applause.]