The Honourable Premier E S Magashule held an imbizo with all principals of Free State schools in Bloemfontein 14 September. This meeting comes after President Jacob Zuma earlier this year met with principals from across the country, reiterating the governments’ expectations from the educators.
With a total of about 1 400 principals representing public schools on private property, primary schools as well as secondary schools present, the Kovsie Church at the University of Bloemfontein reverberated the future of education in the province as the exchanging of notes regarding good practices, challenges and recommendations were made.
The role of parents, safety at schools, learner pregnancy as well as improvement of learning and teaching dominated the discussions. According to Magashule, education is the governments’ priority as set out in the ruling party’s manifesto and that if they don’t act immediately on the problems facing the education system, the province and the country will lag behind the rest of the world.
“Our expectation is that educators must be in schools, in classes at all times; they must teach; they must not abuse learners and they must not neglect their duties,” Magashule said conveying the non-negotiable. Magashule however acknowledged that challenges faced by the schools in the province are by no means unique and thus pleaded with the principals to have commitment and dedication for the restoration of their profession and to work hard in reviving a culture of learning, teaching and better management of schools.
Making reference to the issues raised by principals, Magashule said, “Indeed we do acknowledge that you have concerns regarding your working conditions and sometimes you may feel that government is not taking you serious. However, we have heard you hence we have committed to promote the status of teachers, ensure the employment of adequate numbers and improve your remuneration and training.”
This requires a major renewal of our schooling and education system. As government and principals, Magashule said they need to start applying innovative ideas in the way we do things. There are so many things we can achieve if we put our heads together and prioritise.
Magashule committed that education and health will continue to receive the biggest portion of the provincial budget and will henceforth constitute a permanent discussion of the Executive Council.
In closing, Magashule, along with the MEC fort education will continue with unannounced visits but most importantly will continue providing support to all principals to be effective managers at their schools. He also reiterated a call to parents, community stakeholders and business and private sector organisation to play an active role in turning schools into centres of community life and excellence.
I am sure if we can work together, we can do more.
Issued by: Office of the Premier, Free State Provincial Government
15 September 2009
Source: Office of the Premier, Free State Provincial Government (http://www.fs.gov.za/)
