University of Pretoria Pre-University Academy (UP-PUA)

The University of Pretoria Pre-University Academy (UP-PUA) has a multi-level, data-led, and collaborative approach, being well aware that the education crisis cannot be solved by one institution. Our collaboration with our internal and external partners has allowed us to service a number of cohorts. The University of Pretoria Pre-University Academy  (UP-PUA) Saturday  Programme is a programme for secondary school learners that provides quality education to transition from secondary school to tertiary education seamlessly.

Our mission is to serve secondary school learners by providing inclusive and dynamic quality of teaching and learning through well-equipped teachers, integration of technology, and exposure to real-life problem identification and solving strategies through the cooperation of schools and communities to create a successful and efficient young generation equipped with the knowledge, skills, attitude, and value that is needed at a more extensive or global scale.

Learners who will take in this programme will foster a conceptual understanding of science, technology, engineering, art, and mathematics (STEAM)-related fields. They will also develop personal skills required for access and success in education and the working environment and enhance academic and professional writing skills.

FOCUS OF THE PRE-UNIVERSITY ACADEMY

There are three components to the project. 

• Building a post-secondary school-going culture and the Mamelodi Community of Learning Collaborative.
• Post-secondary school awareness and readiness and a seamless transition to tertiary studies.
• Developing a replicable anchor institution strategy regionally in Gauteng and other South African Universities. All three components adopt a data-led approach.

OBJECTIVES OF THE PRE-UNIVERSITY ACADEMY

The establishment of the Academy aims to identified address problems in the education system in order to curb:

• Poor learner performance in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) subjects at both secondary schools and universities
• A high dropout rate at universities, especially in the STEM fields
• Under-preparedness of learners who leave matric to enter institutions of higher learning, especially universities
• Mechanical understanding of Mathematics and Physical Sciences
• Low Mathematics and Science interest among learners who enter the Further Education and Training Phase (FET)
• High anxiety levels among learners who either do mathematics and science
• Perpetual poor performance of learners in the STEM subjects irrespective of the volumes/magnitude of In-Service Training (InSeT) offered to Mathematics and Physical Science teachers by numerous service providers.
• High number of learners opting for Mathematical Literacy as the way out of the STEM subject stream.

Structure of the UP-PUA

The UP-PUA (Development pivot)

Grade 8 and 9 learners attend face-to-face classes on the University of Pretoria Mamelodi campus.

The following subjects are offered:

• Mathematics
• Natural Science
• Creative writing
• Computer literacy
• Examination preparation

Holiday programmes are presented, as well as a science club and an art club.

The UP-PUA (Excellence pivot)

Grade 10 learners attend face-to-face classes at the University of Pretoria, Groenkloof campus.

The following subjects are offered:

• Mathematics
• Physics
• Chemistry
• Natural Science
• Language and literacy
• Advanced Computer literacy
• Philosophy
• Transdisciplinary Offerings

Applications are online or in-person from 30 November 2023 until 20 January 2024.

To apply, you should meet the following criteria:

• English: 50%
• Mathematics: 50%
• Natural Science 50%

Successful applicants will write an admission test in January 2024.

PARENTS GUIDANCE

In order to better assist parents in guiding their children to secure futures, the Mamelodi Campus has embarked on a career interest awareness for 1000 grade 9 learners through online testing. Test results were shared with parents through a dedicated parents meeting. Through this forum, parents were made aware of the career opportunities that their children could pursue and how best to position their children through correct subject choices. The positive response from parents has warranted a decision to make online testing an annual event.

INTERNATIONAL COMPARATIVE STUDIES 

• Robotics training for grade 8-10 learners from Tsako Thabo has seen the most unexpected children shining and discovering their talents. This e-twinning initiative with a USA school Barringer High exposes learners to the thinking skills like problem-solving and critical thinking embedded in coding. The e-twinning helps the learners develop a global perspective which will help them understand local issues within their global context.

• The STEAM project combines arts and science through architectural influences to create conducive environments for learning and the performing arts. Learners are sharing images of Mamelodi with their USA counterparts. Biodiversity project links the arts and science through a global citizen lens in partnership with learners from Newark.

• Sports and recreation by partnering with a local cycling club expose learners to pursue opportunities in the sporting field.

Opportunities for all learners in collaboration with multiple providers through structured Memoranda of Understanding with the different partners in engendering a college (post-secondary school) going culture including tertiary institutions, schools, Education departments, business, and non-government organisations. Itsotseng Psychology clinic as such an example assists parents with children at risk of failing or dropping out, by providing counselling services for both parties.  Mae Jemison's Science Reading library exposes learners in the community to career fields and individuals in the sciences. Committed Artists for Cultural Advancement (CAFCA)  allows children to explore their musical talent and personal creativity in a safe and supportive environment. CAFCA, through its commitment, has created many post-secondary school opportunities for its participants.