The Department of Basic Education says it is encouraged by the successful administration of the first Grade 4 assessments aligned with the newly introduced Mother Tongue-based Bilingual Education (MTbBE) programme, describing it as a significant advancement in the country’s early learning strategy.
The assessments began on Monday, with learners tested in Natural Science and Technology, while Mathematics assessments are taking place today, both conducted in the learners’ mother tongues.
According to the department, this marks an important milestone in South Africa’s efforts to strengthen foundational education, enhance comprehension and build a more inclusive and effective schooling system.
Basic Education Minister Siviwe Gwarube said the approach is intended to improve understanding and deepen concept mastery, particularly in subjects that require strong cognitive engagement.
“Mother-tongue instruction is one of the most powerful tools available to improve learning outcomes. When learners understand the language of teaching and learning, they engage more confidently, grasp concepts more deeply, and progress more successfully through the system,” Gwarube said.
She added that the MTbBE approach forms part of the department’s long-term strategy to address learning losses, and to strengthen reading and mathematics performance in primary schools.
Nearly 12,000 Schools Implement Programme
The department confirmed that 11,948 schools across all nine provinces are currently implementing the MTbBE model. The initiative has been widely welcomed by education experts who argue that assessments conducted in a familiar language reduce barriers to understanding and enable learners to demonstrate their true abilities.
The approach is expected to improve learner performance in key subjects such as mathematics, science, and social sciences, where conceptual clarity is essential.
Early Signs of Progress
Teachers piloting the bilingual framework have reportedly observed higher levels of learner confidence and participation in class. Many believe the approach may help reduce academic gaps that typically emerge in Grade 4 — a critical transition period where learners move from “learning to read” to “reading to learn.”
The department said it will continue to monitor implementation closely and adjust support materials, teacher training, and assessment guidelines where necessary.
Potential for Expansion
If proven successful, the MTbBE model could be expanded to further strengthen multilingual education across the system.
“Our goal is to ensure every child is taught in a language they fully understand, especially in the early grades,” Gwarube said.
The Department of Basic Education maintains that mother tongue instruction is central to improving literacy and numeracy outcomes, laying a stronger foundation for future learning.
Results from the assessments are expected to inform future implementation and curriculum planning as the programme continues to roll out nationally.
