Change in education a priority

THE proposed Basic Education Laws Amendment Bill has caused uneasiness in the public sector.

A petition campaign and an objection with the hashtag #StopSchoolCapture were initiated on social media.

The public was requested by the Department of Education to freely make submissions and comments. The best approach would have been to visit the Department of Education website and read the proposed amendments and submit comments instead of petitioning. A number of issues are discussed.

Unfortunately, school governance as a practice of democracy has not translated into democratic participation of all, and this needs critical reflection. Regrettably, the education system is still failing the poor and less privileged, especially rural children.

The two-tier education system significantly lends itself to the status quo; preservation of privileges, perpetuation of race, especially class oppression. Using language, fees, admission and other policies, those from lower income and unemployed class are excluded from top-ranked public schools.

Without quality education it will be difficult to break the cycles of poverty, unemployment, illiteracy and homelessness. Education transformation needs to be at the forefront of government and public concern. Pietermaritzburg