04/25/2024 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 04/25/2024 07:50
Note to editors: Please find attached Afrikaans and English soundbites by Delmaine Christians MP.
Despite some welcome amendments, the DA maintains its steadfast opposition to the Basic Education Laws Amendment (BELA) Bill.
The Select Committee on education and technology, sports, arts, and culture yesterday adopted amendments to the Bill, incorporating proposed changes from the committee's deliberations. However, the DA remains deeply concerned about the potential impact of the Bill on schools and communities, as well as its failure to address systemic challenges within South Africa's education system.
The DA presented several proposed amendments to the committee, advocating for increased autonomy and empowerment for school governing bodies (SGBs) and local communities. While the select committee did make some adjustments based on the DA's proposals, the overall direction of the Bill continues to undermine these key principles.
Key Concerns:
The DA is deeply troubled by the lack of meaningful public participation in the legislative process, as evidenced by thousands of unanalysed email submissions that the ANC-majority portfolio committee disregarded.
The BELA Bill's focus on centralising power poses too much risk of abuse and fails to address critical issues such as overcrowding, curriculum failures, and the provision of safe and adequate education facilities. The DA will continue to advocate for education reform that truly addresses these challenges and empowers schools and communities to provide quality education for all South Africans.