Gauteng MEC for Education, Sport, Arts, Culture and Recreation, Matome Chiloane, has encouraged President Cyril Ramaphosa to proceed with signing the Basic Education Laws Amendment (BELA) Bill on Friday, despite opposition from the Democratic Alliance (DA).
The DA, a partner in the Government of National Unity (GNU) alongside the African National Congress (ANC), has opposed the signing of BELA.
They argue that the bill violates the right to mother-tongue education and other constitutional rights.
They are calling for changes to ensure the bill aligns with the Constitution and believe that moving forward without these changes violates both the letter and spirit of the joint Statement of Intent, which forms the basis of the GNU.
Chiloane supports the amendment, stating it is designed to enhance the management and governance of South Africa’s education sector.
The Gauteng Department of Education (GDE) views the bill as crucial for empowering it to manage school admissions and enforce inclusive policies, particularly in overcoming resistance from some School Governing Bodies (SGBs) that oppose transformation.
“The Gauteng Department of Education (GDE) welcomes the bill as it will empower the Head of Department (HOD) to make critical decisions regarding school admissions and language policies,” Chiloane said.
He further explained, “This is crucial in assisting the department to manage school admissions effectively and address resistance from certain School Governing Bodies (SGBs) that oppose transformation.”
Chiloane outlined the key aspects of the bill that will strengthen the management, which includes compulsory Grade R, holding parents accountable, criminalising school disruptions, promoting SGB transparency, allowing HOD financial oversight, enforcing fair admissions, and ensuring inclusive language policies.
Chiloane emphasised full support for the president signing the bill into law, highlighting that with changing demographics, it is unacceptable for schools to deny learners access to nearby schools based on language.
He also noted that schools should adopt dual-medium instruction, as necessary, with the HOD ensuring that language policies are inclusive.
“If numbers dictate that a school must be changed to be a dual medium of instruction, that should happen without interference. Public schools serve the public, and no learner should be excluded.
The HOD will be empowered to ensure that language policies are inclusive and responsive to the needs of the community,” Chiloane added.
IOL