The Portfolio Committee on Basic Education has extended the deadline for interested individuals to submit written comments on the Basic Education Laws Amendment (BELA) Bill to 15 August 2022.
This comes after the Committee received several requests for an extension to the original deadline, which was 15 June 2022.
In a statement, Committee Chairperson, Bongiwe Mbinqo-Gigaba said:
As the Committee appreciates public input and intends to ensure that legislation speaks to the needs and wants of the entire sector, we decided to heed the calls for the extension of the deadline.
Individuals or organisations submitting written comments have been invited to direct their submissions using the following options:
- Email for the attention of: Mr. Llewellyn Brown, the Committee Secretary, via email: [email protected]
- Online at: https://forms.gle/MoC6AdbdQyYPk3Y49
- WhatsApp: +27 60 550 9848.
Those who want to make oral submissions are required to do so. For enquiries regarding these submission, you may directly reach Brown on 083 709 8450, however, all correspondence should be addressed to Mbinqo-Gigaba.
Submissions must clearly indicate the name, surname, telephone number and email address of the person or organisation submitting comments.
Submissions ought to be made no later than the end of business day on 15 August 2022.
According to the Department of Basic Education, the BELA Bill seeks to amend certain definitions; to provide that attendance of Grade R is compulsory; and to provide for system improvements in terms of admission of learners to public schools.
Additionally, it is said that the Bill also proposes technical and substantive adjustments; clarifies certain existing provisions; inserts provisions not provided for in existing legislation; and strengthens enforcement mechanisms for offenses and penalties.
The Bill is accessible at: https://www.parliament.gov.za/bill/2300398.
