STEP is a research group based in the Department of Logistics at Stellenbosch University. We work across operations research, education systems modelling, simulation, statistical analysis, and applied education research.

​

The group was established in response to persistent challenges in South African education, including unequal academic opportunities, uneven learning outcomes, and the difficulty of improving education systems under real-world constraints.

​

Our work spans early childhood development, schooling, higher education student success, education policy and planning, and data-informed evaluation and decision support. We work with researchers, postgraduate students, education departments, non-profit organisations, funders, schools, and other education-sector partners.

​

STEP is supported through research funding, postgraduate research, and commissioned projects. We welcome collaborations that use rigorous systems-based research to understand and improve education outcomes.