Numbers Don’t Lie: SA’s Shrinking Maths Future

Numbers Don’t Lie: SA’s Shrinking Maths Future

From Afternoon Drive with John Maytham by CapeTalk

May 1, 2026 · 11 min

About this episode

The episode discusses the decline in mathematics education in South Africa and its implications for the economy and STEM skills.

Barry Mare speaks to Dr Shahiem Patel , Academic Dean at Regent Business School, to unpack what this decline means for South Africa’s long-term economic and education outlook — and whether the country is at risk of deepening its STEM skills shortage just as global demand for quantitative expertise accelerates.  Presenter John Maytham is an actor and author-turned-talk radio veteran and seasoned journalist. His show serves a round-up of local and international news coupled with the latest in business, sport, traffic and weather. The host’s eclectic interests mean the program often surprises the audience with intriguing book reviews and inspiring interviews profiling artists.  A daily highlight is Rapid Fire, just after 5:30pm. CapeTalk fans call in, to stump the presenter with their general knowledge questions. Another firm favourite is the humorous Thursday crossing with award-winning journalist Rebecca Davis, called “Plan B”.  Thank you for listening to a podcast from Afternoon Drive with John Maytham  Listen live on Primedia+ weekdays from 15:00 and 18:00 (SA Time) to Afternoon Drive with John Maytham broadcast on CapeTalk…

People in this episode

Host: John Maytham

Guest: Dr Shahiem Patel

Topics covered

  • math education
  • STEM skills
  • economic outlook
  • South Africa
  • quantitative expertise

Keywords

  • maths future
  • STEM shortage
  • education decline
  • economic impact
  • quantitative skills

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: Regent Business School, CapeTalk

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