The year 2018 is dedicated to ensuring that all systems are in place to support the functioning of the Lesson Study at the University of Pretoria (LSUP). One of the key determinants of the success of LSUP as the SMTE Department Focus Area is the collaboration with the Education Sector as the custodian of schools (teachers and learners) and curriculum policy.

Dr Sekao from the SMTE Department and the Coordinator of LSUP held a meeting with Mr M Ramadie (Chief Director: Curriculum Management Services) in North West Education Department in Mahikeng to discuss the collaboration between the two institutions. Mr Ramadie was accompanied by two Directors in his Chief Directorate and two Deputy Chief Education Specialists responsible for Mathematics in the province. Dr Sekao presented the purpose of the Lesson study and its potential benefits for both the North West Education Department and the University of Pretoria. Although the Lesson study is not confined to mathematics only, “for now” aluded Dr Sekao, “the focus will be on mathematics across all grades because of the low levels of performance in the subject”. Mr Ramadie welcomed the proposed collaboration and made a commitment to support its activities.

This is against the background that some of the sub-districts are already implementing the Lesson Study and they could be used as the launch pad for this collaboration. In support for the collaboration, Mr Malindi underscored the fact that Professional Learning Communities as a mode of curriculum delivery and coverage (which the Lesson Study is an example of) constitutes a key deliverable in his directorate. The Lesson Study is therefore viewed as a useful vessel to achieve this goal. Dr Mammen was delegated to coordinate the future activities of this invaluable collaboration