The Premier of Limpopo reminded the communities the importance of protecting their schools. He said this at the Provincial Education Summit taking place at Meropa Hotel. Today is the first day of the the two days summit planned for the 9-10 May 2016. This sentiment was also emphasised by the MEC for Education, Honourable Ishmael Kgetjepe in the same gathering.
Giving the purpose of the summit, the MEC indicated that the summit is meant to bring all stakeholders in education sector to make sure the province improves its quality of education. “we cannot afford to stay at the tail end. Being in third position from the bottom is not tolerable” The MEC indicated.
The burning of schools in Vuwani was also condemned by COSAS, PSA, NEHAWU, SADTU, CTU-ATU and the NASGB through their representatives at the Education summit. COSAS also made a call to all to protect the schools across the province and the country. Moving forward, the government continues to interact with the community members and all leaders in the area to find amicable solutions and make sure education begins in not so long period.
When the situation is calm in the area, assessment of the impact of the damage will be done to be able to find the exact cost of the damage and the way forward. Key is to make sure teaching and learning resumes speedly.
In this summit today, Dr Takalani Mashau made a presentation on stakeholder involvement in improving learning outcomes while Professor Sekgothe Mokgoatsana presented on effective learner involvement in education. Dr Mafu Rakometsi of UMALUSI also appraised the department in the arrangement of exams but indicated there is a need to strengthern security issues.
The summit continues tomorrow on the 10th May 2016 from 8h00. The MEC will deliver closing remarks and way-forward tomorrow where the declaration will also be adopted.
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