President Cyril Ramaphosa has signed the Basic Education Laws Amendment (BELA Bill), albeit with several conditions at the Union Buildings in Pretoria.
Despite signing the bill, its full implementation has been delayed by three months, to allow for further engagements on two clauses which relates to languages and school admissions.
“I am willing to allow those who believe a solution will be found to the two clauses that they believe they have solutions for, to give them the opportunity and delay the implementation of clauses four and five for a period of three months.
The rest of the act is implemented immediately.
This will give the parties time to deliberate,” said Ramaphosa.
The bill was signed despite threats of legal action by some parties in the Government of National Unity, and some civil organizations.
Ramaphosa however cautioned that if no solution was found within three months, the bill would be implemented fully.
“In the spirit of cooperation and meaningful engagement, I cannot say no to the engagement, even at this late hour.
I have to say, if you do believe these challenges can be resolved, I am going to sign the bill to give a clear message to the people of SA that we are proceeding with transformation of the education system.
But as president, I am prepared to open a window for discussion for a limited period,” explained the President.
Ramaphosa said it was important to sign the bill, because despite the progress that has been made, there are challenges in basic education that hinder the country’s progress.
In addition, the signing of the bill marks an important step towards resolving longstanding challenges in the country’s education system.
“We have seen cases of learners being denied admission to schools because of their language policies.
We have had cases of children not being allowed back to school or to sit exams because their parents cannot pay school fees.
We have seen great disparities in norms and standards, in governance and in access to resources,” highlighted Ramaphosa, adding that the bill will help address these challenges.
The President said the bill will further open the doors of learning and lays a firm foundation for learning from an early age amongst others.
“Grade R, the reception year before Grade 1, will now be compulsory.
This will enhance our focus on Early Childhood Development.
It will ensure young children are better prepared for formal schooling.
The law requires schools to apply the same standards for the admission of learners.
The bill contains provisions for improving school admissions policies, particularly with respect to vulnerable learners, like the children of undocumented migrants,” explained Ramaphosa.
Meanwhile, the Basic Education Minister Siviwe Gwarube, snubbed the bill’s signing ceremony, citing that her party, Democratic Party (DA), instructed her not to attend the event.
