The Portfolio Committee on Basic Education today had a productive and fruitful meeting with various organisations in the special and inclusive education sector.
Committee Chairperson Ms Nomalungelo Gina said the Committee had always shown an interest in special needs and inclusive education. “We want to ensure that the doors of learning are open to all children. The Committee engaged, among others, with Human Rights Watch, Inclusive Education South Africa and Section 27 as well as with the Department of Basic Education on these issues.”
The Committee commended the Department of Basic Education for the work done in this field so far. The department said that it had exceeded its target of 500 designated schools. It has already designated about 800 schools as full service schools.
The Committee, however, expressed concern with the challenges that still existed. The organisations present also applauded the department for the progress made in this field but indicated challenges still exist.The Committee felt that the number of children that were still not covered in terms of this kind of education was worrying.
The Committee further took note of inputs that no special schools were included on the list of no-fee paying schools. Learners can apply for exemption of fees at schools, but the decision to grant it is at the discretion of the school. Organisations further highlighted the issue of insufficient learner transport for such schools.
Ms Gina said: “Your inputs have armed the Committee even more regarding inclusive education and special needs. We will monitor all policies relating to these matters and the extent to which it implemented. Today’s meeting is not an event, but a journey of things to come.”
For media enquiries or interviews with the Chairperson, please contact:
Rajaa Azzakani
Tel: 021 403 8437
Cell: 081703 9542
