Level A1 – BeginnerCEFR A1
2 min
85 words
- Mamokgethi Phakeng is a South African mathematician and leader.
- She is vice-chancellor of the University of Cape Town.
- She received national and international recognition for maths work.
- She won the Order of the Baobab award.
- Her interest in mathematics started at school.
- Her parents encouraged hard work and learning at home.
- She began teaching in rural farm schools.
- She advises young people to practise maths every day.
- She says maths builds logical thinking and career choices.
- She shows mathematics can fit many personal identities.
Difficult words
- mathematician — a person who studies and works with numbers
- vice-chancellor — the main leader of a university
- recognition — public praise or official honour for work
- rural — related to the countryside or farms
- encourage — to give support or make someone tryencouraged
- practise — to do something again and again to improve
Tip: hover, focus or tap highlighted words in the article to see quick definitions while you read or listen.
Discussion questions
- Do you like maths?
- How often do you practise maths?
- Would you like to teach in a rural school?
Related articles
20 Oct 2025
24 Nov 2025
Two studies find mixed results on grouping English learners
Two recent studies compared grouping English learners together in school classes. A high school study of 31,303 students linked higher EL concentrations to lower graduation and college entry; an elementary trial found no overall difference but different benefits by skill level.
30 Dec 2025
Report: Fear from Immigration Enforcement in High Schools
A national report says federal immigration enforcement has created fear on many public high school campuses. The study describes students missing school, bullying, safety concerns and steps school leaders are taking to protect families.
9 Dec 2025
10 Oct 2025