An initiative that aims to develop ethical, engaged and innovative leaders who pursue economic and societal transformation is being nurtured and grown by the School of Accountancy at the Faculty of Economic and Management Sciences. The SMART Programme, launched in 2024, is a powerful example of how students can contribute to meaningful change in rural communities through volunteerism and education.
Many learners in rural areas face significant challenges in accessing the support they need to excel in mathematics. Systemic issues such as large class sizes, limited funding, and a lack of individualized support can hinder students' ability to grasp complex mathematical concepts. For many learners, the lack of additional resources outside the classroom can make the difference between success and struggle.
A SMART solution
At the same time, students from the School of Accountancy, having attended a seminar on social innovation, identified the limitations of mathematics education in South Africa and its impact on youth opportunities. A subsequent survey indicated a strong desire among students to participate in volunteer opportunities that could address these issues. This feedback, combined with the desire to contribute meaningfully to the community, led to the creation of the SMART Programme.
The School of Accountancy Mathematics and Accounting Rural Tutoring (SMART) Programme connects Accountancy students with opportunities to volunteer as mathematics tutors at afterschool centres in rural Stellenbosch. These afterschool programmes struggle to find sufficient volunteers to provide the one-on-one assistance learners need to master mathematical concepts. The SMART Programme is designed to fill this gap by engaging students who have a passion for both education and community development.
According to Mrs Remerta Basson, Lecturer at the School of Accountancy and the SMART Coordinator, “On the one hand, this programme aims to improve learners’ performance in mathematics, and on the other it wants to transform students through experiential learning into graduates with strong citizenship skills.” The project emphasizes not only academic support but also the personal growth of the student volunteers, preparing them to be leaders in both business and society.
To ensure the success of the programme, volunteer students are not only trained in effective tutoring methods, but also provided with ongoing guidance to help them reflect on their experiences. This holistic approach to student development ensures that they are gaining valuable insights into teaching, mentorship and community engagement. Thanks to a generous donation from RAiN Chartered Accountants, transport to aftercare centres in rural areas has been made available, enabling volunteers to reach their assigned centres and contribute effectively.
Partnerships for greater impact
The project is carried out in partnership with two local organisations, Prochorus Community Development and the Pebbles Project, which works with children from farming communities. Through these collaborations, the SMART Project reaches several rural areas near Stellenbosch, including aftercare centres at Mt Vernon, L’avenir, Koopmanskloof and Delheim in the Koelenhof and Klapmuts areas, as well as Niel Joubert (Simondium), Eikendal (between Stellenbosch and Somerset West), Kaapzicht (Bottelary) and the Prochorus Aftercare Centre in Jonkershoek.
Feedback from both the learners and student volunteers has been overwhelmingly positive. The learners not only improved their mathematical understanding but also built lasting relationships with their tutors. The students, in turn, reported that the experience deepened their sense of responsibility and citizenship. Volunteer Jada van Nieuwenhuizen, who assisted learners from Grade 2 to Grade 4 at the Prochorus Aftercare Centre in Jonkershoek, said she had found the experience life-changing. “It gave me a new perspective on the area I live in; it showed me another side of Stellenbosch just a few kilometres from campus that I did not know exist. I also realized how privileged I am to have had the opportunity to attend first-rate schools and university.”
Tineke Swanepoel, who assisted at aftercare centres at Eikendal and Kaapzicht, wholeheartedly agreed on the importance of being grateful for one’s education. “I am deeply impressed by how important education is, and how every person’s contribution can make a difference, even if it impacts just one child’s life.”
She formed a connection with a girl in one of her classes who appeared downcast every day. After some encouragement, she learned that the learner disliked school. However, she did have a passion for art and drawing. “The fact that she feels seen, especially with her unique interests, has made a huge difference.”
“It was clear that the programme significantly enhanced the students’ awareness as engaged citizens, and all of them expressed a desire to participate again in future,” said Mrs Gail Fortuin, SMART facilitator and Lecturer at the School of Accountancy.
The SMART Programme exemplifies the Faculty’s commitment to "transforming the economy and society." By providing rural learners with the support they need to excel in mathematics and the opportunity to build relationships with their student volunteers, this initiative empowers individuals with the knowledge and skills to succeed, thereby contributing to long-term societal and economic change. At the same time, the project transforms the volunteers into leaders with a deep understanding of the importance of education and community development. In doing so, it creates a ripple effect, benefiting not just the participants but society as a whole.
As the SMART Programme continues to grow, it will remain a beacon of how education, volunteerism and community collaboration can work together to create lasting impact. The transformation it fosters among students, learners and communities demonstrates how education is key to shaping the future.
- The SMART Programme team comprises Coordinator Remerta Basson, Facilitators Gail Fortuin, Mari Patterson and Lee-Ann Pietersen, and Nerita Malan, who is responsible for Student Recruitment. They are assisted by Liesl de Villiers from the School of Accountancy.
