We have noted the recent remarks attributed to MEC Rodgers, as well as articles in the media, regarding the Department of Education.
These unfortunate statements require correction as they have caused a false narrative that the department has been placed under administration due to governance collapse. It must be noted that only national government can place a provincial department under administration in terms of section 100 of the Constitution of the Republic of South Africa.
While it is true that the MEC has exercised his right to invoke section 18 of the Public Finance Management Act, it is important to note that this intervention is brought in context of supporting efforts to stabilise the finances of the department.
The remarks attributed to the MEC following this intervention need to be grounded in facts and reflect the reality of the situation.
The reality is that the finances of the Department of Education have been severely affected by sudden, successive budget cuts over a number of years amounting to R26 billion, giving the department no time to adjust. On the other hand, the operating costs for the department have increased due to the cost of living increases and the increased enrolment.
As a department, we have since embarked on massive cost-cutting measures to counter the effect of the cuts on the operations of the department. These measures will take a long time to produce the desired results and as such, the department requires Provincial Treasury to review the impact of the budget cuts imposed on the department, which will inevitably require the Provincial Treasury to provide funding to the department in order to meet our constitutional obligations and commitments.
Despite these challenges, the department, together with our partners, continues to make significant strides in improving access, equity, and quality of education across the province.
Investments in infrastructure, teacher development, and learner support programmes are yielding measurable results, as evidenced by the steady improvement in matric performance, increased access to early childhood development, and expanded opportunities in technical and vocational education.
It is also important to note that education is not a political football. Reckless statements that undermine the work of dedicated educators, learners, and communities do a disservice to the collective efforts being made to uplift our schools.
While challenges remain – particularly in areas such as infrastructure backlogs, learner safety, and resource distribution – these are being addressed through targeted interventions and partnerships. We will continue to engage constructively with all stakeholders, so that together we can advance the vision of quality education for every child in KwaZulu-Natal.
Our commitment remains unwavering: to build an education system that empowers learners, supports teachers, and strengthens our province’s future.
Enquiries:
Mlu Mtshali
Media Liaison Officer
Cell: 082 088 5060
Muzi Mahlambi
Head of Communications
Cell: 082 519 1420
#GovZAUpdates
