Mafikeng: North West Premier Maureen Modiselle says government will continue to encourage parents to play an active role in education of their children.
The Premier was speaking during her State of the Province Address on Friday at the North West provincial Legislature.
"Our government shall continue with a program to train and increase the skills levels of parents serving in School Governing Bodies. Each School Governing body should at least receive two leadership training sessions during its term," she said.
Premier Modiselle said over the last few years in the province, important milestones have been achieved in improving conditions in the public schools. She added that even though much have being achieved a lot still remains to be done to achieve; total universal access for all children in the Province, elimination of learner drop outs within the system, improved performance in gateway subjects.
Ms Modiselle highlighted that over the years the research has shown that schools which produce better grade 12 results, have relatively better managerial leadership. She said the role of School Principals is central to the success of government’s intervention in making schools work better.
On our part, she said, we will be expanding on the already built 38 Resource Centres, which are resourced to give support to schools and progressively ensure that each school has access to information and communication technology (ICT) infrastructure and other services.
She added: "We will also be ensuring that all schools in the province are provided with a computer to enhance information management and administration.
Ms Modiselle cited that the introduction of Occupation Specific Dispensation in the Education Sector has brought some stability since the National Strike of 2007.
"Government shall continue to work together with teacher unions to progressively improve job conditions of educators in public schools. Educators should equally honour their side of the contract, to carryout the non-negotiable announced by President Zuma," she said.
Issued by: Office of the Premier, North West Provincial Government
12 June 2009
