The Portfolio Committee on Basic Education is satisfied with its oversight visit to the districts of Kuruman (Northern Cape) and Sterkspruit (Eastern Cape). The Chairperson of the Committee, Ms Nomalungelo Gina, said the most fulfilling aspect was that communication channels had once again been opened among all stakeholders concerned in school disruptions.
“Both the Road Forum and the South African Democratic Teachers Union (Sadtu) showed responsible and mature leadership by not only apologising but also committing to being part of a solution in both districts. Now that everybody is happy, we can all turn our focus on ensuring quality learning and teaching,” Ms Gina.
While the Road Forum accepted responsibility for school disruptions in the Joe Morolong district, Sadtu admitted to chasing district officials away from schools since March 2014 in Sterkspruit. Sadtu’s wrath was even felt by the provincial portfolio committee when it was chased away two weeks ago. The organisation apologised and said this was a genuine mistake, and that Sadtu had even communicated the error to the Speaker of the EC Legislature, Ms Noxolo Kiviet.
“We should all move forward and ensure improvements to the education of the African child. Apologising is not an easy thing and the Committee is grateful for it. It is encouraging to see that all stakeholders are committed to quality education,” Ms Gina said.
The committee urged all those involved in education to put aside personal differences and work towards improving results.
For media enquiries or interviews with the Chairperson, please contact:
Sibongile Maputi
Tel: 021 403 8041
Cell: 081 052 6060
E-mail: smaputi@parliament.gov.za
