DBE's financial crisis 'translates to fewer teachers, reduced textbooks', reveals minister
Recently, provincial Education Departments countrywide have complained about imposed budgetary cuts.
Basic Education Minister Siviwe Gwarube briefs the media on the budgetary cuts in the education sector on 25 September 2024. Picture: Supplied/@DBE_SA on X
JOHANNESBURG - The Department of Basic Education faces a national funding crisis that impacts teaching posts.
Recently, provincial Education Departments countrywide have complained about imposed budgetary cuts.
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This has led to several of them having to release their contracted teachers and being unable to fill vacant posts.
In a media briefing on Wednesday, Basic Education Minister Siviwe Gwarube deemed this a harsh reality confronting the country.
"And these [financial] pressures are not just a recent occurrence, but they have been years in the making due to aggressive budget cuts, economic stagnation, fiscal mismanagement across government - which is now affecting our frontline services. These budget pressures are not just numbers on a spreadsheet but they translate to fewer teachers, reduced textbooks.”
She further reinforced the importance of the education sector.
"Our education system is the bedrock of our nation’s future. While we face significant challenges, these are not insurmountable. But they require decisive action and an unwavering commitment to putting education first."