Gwarube to announce practical steps required to implement BELA Act
President Cyril Ramaphosa promulgated the legislation on Friday.
Basic Education Minister Siviwe Gwarube on 21 November 2024 among ministers leading the multidisciplinary teams in government responsible for the national response to instances of food borne illnesses. Picture: GCIS
CAPE TOWN - Basic Education Minister Siviwe Gwarube is about to announce the practical steps required to implement the contention Basic Education Laws Amendment (BELA) Act.
President Cyril Ramaphosa promulgated the legislation on Friday.
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There has been intense debate about the legislation's school language and admission policies.
Political parties and civil groups have all aimed at sections 4 and 5 of the BELA Act
Clause four gives control of the school admissions policy to the Department of Basic Education.
It also requires schools to admit pupils who might not have the required documents.
On the other hand, clause five calls for school governing bodies to submit language policies and amendments to the department for approval.
After a three-month-long consultation process to review clauses 4 and 5 of the bill, Gwarube has now committed to full implementation of the bill.
ANC WELCOMES SIGNING OF BELA ACT IN ITS ENTIRETY
The ANC has welcomed the signing of the BELA Act in its entirety, saying it’s a significant milestone in transforming the education system in South Africa.
The party’s secretary general, Fikile Mbalula, addressed the media at Luthuli House on Saturday morning to reflect on the highly contested BELA Act, among other issues, such as gender based violence and the electricity-related matters.
Ramaphosa signed the BELA Act in September, leaving out sections four and five for further consultation.
The two sections address issues of language policies and admissions.
The president had three months to resolve the disputes around the two sections.
Ramaphosa now needs Gwarube to develop regulations, norms, and standards before it is implemented.
Mbalula said this has been years in the making.
“This achievement follows years of rigorous consultation and reflects our unwavering commitment to ensuring equitable access to quality education for all South Africans in line with the Freedom Charter.”