On Sunday evening, President Cyril Ramaphosa announced his cabinet, confirming a host of changes. The president confirmed a major appointment for the Department of Basic Education (DBE).
Ramaphosa appointed the Democratic Alliance’s (DA) Siviwe Gwarube as the New Minister of Basic Education. Gwarube will be supported by Dr.Reginah Mhaule who will serve as the Deputy Minister.
Gwarube will prioritise improving numeracy and literacy ratesamong pupils and addressing critical school infrastructure issues, such as the elimination of dangerous pit latrines.
It cannot be that after 30 years of democracy, there are still children who risk death by drowning in a pit toilet.
Teachers Unions React To Appointment
The National Professional Teachers' Organisation of South Africa (NAPTOSA) warmly welcomed Siviwe Gwarub's appointment as the new Minister of Basic Education.
The union hopes the new administration will prioritise infrastructure improvements, address overcrowding, enhance school safety, and build on the successes of the previous administration.
These steps are vital to ensure that every child, irrespective of their socioeconomic background, has access to quality public education.
NAPTOSA also praised the diverse group of ministers appointed, viewing it as a positive indication of inclusivity in government. The union believes this diversity will bring a variety of perspectives and innovative solutions, fostering a more comprehensive approach to national issues.
The South African Democratic Teachers’ Union (SADTU) has expressed disappointment with Gwarub's appointment.
While acknowledging the President’s prerogative in appointing ministers, SADTU disputed ramaphosa's claims of experience and skills being key attributes of his cabinet, particularly concerning the new basic education minister
SADTU alleged that the DA had demanded certain ministerial posts, including Basic Education, which the union viewed as an act of arrogance and a threat to democracy and social cohesion.
Our interest is to see social justice, equitable, equal, and quality public education for all educators to have their academic and professional freedom respected and their labour rights protected as workers.
SADTU added that the DA has historically positioned the union as its primary adversary. According to the union, the DA’s election manifesto labelled the union as too powerful and attributed the failures of the education system to SADTU's influence.
Even its election manifesto declared war against SADTU lamenting that the Union was too strong and must be dealt with. They said they believe that the failures of the education system are because the ANC has allowed our education system to be captured by the vested interests of SADTU. This deficit narrative is engrained and enmeshed in their propaganda and ideology.
Minister’s Wants To Work With Unions
Gwarube emphasised the importance of engaging with key stakeholders like the SADTU to share her vision for the department and address their concerns.
Sadtu is a very important stakeholder and I think it’s important that they hear from me what the vision is for the department. Then we can take it from there,"
The minister expressed her willingness to hear about working conditions and how to prioritise learners in educational discussions.
They can also share some of their concerns about working conditions and how we put the learner back in the conversation.
Despite acknowledging the strained relationship with SADTU, Gwarube expressed confidence in building a constructive dialogue and improving state school performance with the help of education experts.
I am not worried about any strained relationship. I look forward to meeting with them and others.
Gwarube plans to establish a consultative body involving trade unions, industry experts, and other sector actors to collaboratively enhance education quality.
