South Africa’s upcoming elections offer the promise of strengthening democratic principles and paving the way for a fairer basic education system. The country has made significant progress in achieving nearuniversal access to education for 7 to 15yearolds, and initiatives like the National Student Financial Aid Scheme and a focus on entrepreneurial skills further support education beyond the confines of schools. The North West Basic Education Lekgotla exemplifies the transformative power of unity and teamwork in enhancing the quality of basic education across the province, with a focus on infrastructure development and promoting STEM education.
The 2024 Sector Lekgotla in South Africa is a significant event in the country’s pursuit of academic excellence. Led by Basic Education Minister Angie Motshekga, the event integrates insights from international and regional assessments to improve the quality of elementary education. The Lekgotla signifies a shared commitment to carve a future for South African education that is anchored in equity, efficiency, quality, inclusivity, and sustainability, and offers a platform to envisage a future for South African education typified by these values. The event is addressed by the honorable President Cyril Matamela Ramaphosa, whose distinguished political career serves as an inspiration to participants.
In recent years, South African schools have been plagued by a worrying trend of teachers engaging in assault and corporal punishment. The Eastern Cape province, in particular, has seen six teachers from different schools facing investigations for such offenses. Last year, three teachers were dismissed for similar misconduct, and another resigned earlier this year. The issue came to light again after an incident at Huku Senior Secondary School in Mandileni village, where three grade 12 students accused their principal of beating them.