Western Cape Education MEC Donald Grant said on Wednesday his department was determined to improve the quality of education across the province.

The provincial government released a strategic education plan on Tuesday containing specific targets aiming to improve education over the next decade.

Goals included boosting basic numeracy and literacy skills and securing a higher matric pass rate.

The MEC said his department’s new management team was focused.

“The need to improve education outcomes will inform every decision taken in relation to education in the Western Cape. This administration is determined to ensure that over time every learner in this province receives a quality education and is able to read, write and calculate at the required level.”

The provincial Education department’s chief Penny Vinjevold explained maths and science remained priorities.

“This province’s economy suggests that we need top end skills and we need to be sure that we’re providing those two key gateway subjects for further classes.”