The Government of South Africa adopted the Big Fast Results (BFR) problem-solving methodology which was developed and successfully implemented by the government of Malaysia. The BFR methodology facilitates the development of detailed plans with a strong theory of change, as well as strong monitoring, evaluation, reporting, and accountability frameworks which are essential for the successful implementation of national goals and priorities.
The BFR approach was adapted to the South African context. To highlight the urgency of delivery the approach was renamed to Operation Phakisa (“phakisa” meaning “hurry up” in Sesotho). A key characteristic of Operation Phakisa is that the plans, indicators, and targets cover both strategy and implementation. To date, DPME has supported and successfully conducted Operation Phakisa labs with the Department of Health and the Department of Environmental Affairs. The DBE has been working closely with DPME to deliver the third Operation Phakisa initiative in the basic education sector.
Purpose and aims of Operation Phakisa on ICT in education
The main output of the ICT in education lab (collaboration sessions involving key stakeholders from the public and private and sector, academia as well as civil society organisations) will be to develop a systematic and detailed roll-out plan for the delivery of curriculum through ICT infrastructure to schools across all provinces in South Africa.
The roll-out plan will include:
- A costed implementation plan for all schools;
- A professional development programme for all teachers and administrators;
- A documented change management plan for ICT integration; and
- A monitoring and evaluation plan including the indicators for successful ICT use in all schools.
ICT in Education Lab
The ICT in Education main lab will take place at the Birchwood Hotel and OR Tambo Conference Centre on 7 September to 2 October 2015. Key stakeholders and critical decision makers will convene for an intensive 4 weeks to produce detailed and measurable plans, as opposed to higher level planning. The success of Operation Phakisa rests in having appropriate stakeholders and decision makers from various sectors involved in planning as well as implementation.
