WCED supports Ramaphosa's decision to halt two clauses in the BELA Bill

CAPE TOWN - The Western Cape Education Department supports President Cyril Ramaphosa’s decision to halt two clauses in the BELA Bill.

When signing the Bill into law on Friday, Ramaphosa explained that he paused clauses four and five – for further engagement.

Clause four gives control of the school admissions policy to the department, and requires schools to admit learners who might not have the requisite documents.

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On the other hand – clause five calls for governing bodies to submit language policies and amendments to the department for approval.

Education MEC David Maynier says despite the president’s decision, his department is still deeply concerned.

"While we support extending the provision of grade R, making it compulsory at this point will destroy provinces financially. The national Treasury has indicated that no funding is available, and provinces will once again be left to find the money to cover this R17.7 billion unfunded mandate."