The Office of the Premier (OTP) together with the Eastern Cape Department of Education (ECDoE) held a ceremony in honour of the top achievers of the Province in last year’s matric.
The grand event which was held at the East London International Convention Centre to celebrate the 61.6% pass rate and honour the achievers was attended by the top achievers, their parents and teachers. The MEC for Education Mandla Makupula and the Premier were also in attendance with the MEC congratulating the top achievers and also their parents ‘who make sacrifices all year long for their children to succeed’.
Addressing the attendees at the ceremony the Education portfolio chairperson Zolile Mrara first congratulated the top achievers saying that “we appreciate the progress but will be only satisfied by 80% pass rate”. He urged the teachers to go back to basics such as arriving early at school so that they can ‘master the art of teaching’. Mrara then turned to the Metro municipality schools saying that their performance is unacceptable considering the resources that are at their disposal.
The Premier urged the business community to assist the department with whatever they can. “We as a province know where it hurts when it comes to education and we ask that the business sector to rub where it hurts so that we move forward,” said Premier Noxolo Kiviet. She appreciated the efforts made by the class of 2012 but however said that she will not “celebrate mediocre” hence there are plans already made for 2013.
Talking on the issue of the post provisioning, the Premier encouraged teachers who are in excess to allow the move. “Our problem with education is that everybody is scattered around and once everyone has moved to where they are suppose to be, then we will be able to tackle challenges that we have,” said Kiviet adding that if the teachers refuse to comply, force will be used.
Kiviet warned Principals to stop being populists and start making decisions that will benefit learners. “Principals must put their foot down because what we do in our schools will determine where we are going and the time for compromise is over,” added Kiviet. She then turned to departmental officials and urged them to protect the future of learners by changing their ‘corrupt ways’ which are hurting the learners and their education.
The event ended with top achievers receiving trophies, certificates, laptops and bursaries by the Premier, MEC for Education and the Acting Head of Department Mthunywa Ngonzo
