N Pandor affirms government commitment to implementing no-fee schools in
2006

9 January 2006
 
In her reaction to an article, which states that, the Department of Education
will not be able to implement no-fee schools in 2006. Minister, Pandor strongly
affirms that government remains committed to implementing no-fee schools in
2006.

“This commitment is shared by all provinces; by cabinet, in its decision on
the Medium Term Expenditure Framework; Medium Term Budget Statement and by
Premiers in their 2005 Provincial Policy Speeches. This is confirmed by the
fact that KwaZulu-Natal and Gauteng have already proceeded to identify schools
that will be declared no-fee schools as agreed by the Council of Education
Ministers in 2005. Ensuring access to education for all in our country remains
a priority.”

Pandor rejected any suggestion that the Education Laws Amendment Bill would
not become law in 2006. “The Bill has already been passed by both houses of
Parliament and is only waiting assent by the President,” said Pandor.

All MECs who are part of the Council for Education Ministers were aware
early in 2005 that the legislation would not be enacted before 30 September
2005, given this deadline for informing schools of their budget.

The Minister and MECs agreed that provinces and MECs would determine the
initial list of no-fee schools and begin implementation in 2006.

The national Department is working with provincial departments to ensure
implementation of this policy. Further, the Minister of Finance indicated in
the MTEF Speech that one of the priorities to be addressed in the 2006/07
budget is provision for no-fee schools. The reality of a budget allocation for
no-fee schools clearly contradicts the erroneous media reports of the
Minister’s undertakings.

Enquiries:
Tommy Makhode
Cell: 082 566 0446
Tel: (012) 328 7529
E-mail: makhode.t@doe.gov.za

Issued by: Department of Education
9 January 2006