Department of Basic Education Budget Vote Report

Meeting report

The Committee Secretariat, Mr Llewellyn Brown, greeted the Chairperson and Members at 17:32, noting a technical issue with an unidentified participant using the name "iPhone."

Ms R Mashabela (EFF) identified herself as the user in question.

The Chairperson acknowledged the greeting and explained her current location at the airport, ready to proceed with the agenda.

Ms P Xaba-Ntshaba (ANC) proposed adopting the agenda, which was seconded by Mr S Louw (ANC). The agenda was then adopted.

The Chairperson then moved to address apologies received, noting Ms N Mtshweni (MK)'s absence with apology.

Report of the Portfolio Committee on Basic Education on Budget Vote 16: Basic Education

Proceeding to the main item, the Chairperson confirmed receipt of the report and suggested skipping its detailed reading, encouraging direct deliberation on the Committee's recommendations.

Ms Xaba-Ntshaba confirmed agreement.

Turning to the next agenda point, the Chairperson sought consensus on the Committee's recommendations and the report itself.

Ms Xaba-Ntshaba expressed agreement, affirming that there were no objections.

The Chairperson summarised this agreement as the Committee's final report.

Regarding upcoming business, the Chairperson reminded the Committee of an impending budget vote and instructed Mr Brown to prepare a report with the assistance of the Researcher and Content personnel.

Ms Mashabela interjected, stating her party's non-support for the budget due to specific concerns.

Mr Louw responded by affirming the African National Congress's support for adopting the report, despite differing views.

Mr V Zungula (ATM) noted concerns about the wording of a recommendation regarding the review of the subject syllabus, suggesting that it should be more definitive to ensure alignment with economic needs. He emphasised the importance of regularly updating the education system to meet economic requirements effectively. Mr Zungula proposed establishing strict guidelines and timelines for addressing the issue of pit toilets in schools, highlighting the urgency of eradicating this problem. He expressed the African Transformation Movement's commitment to addressing these challenges comprehensively.

The Chairperson acknowledged Mr Zungula's comments, stating that the Department plans to phase out N1 to N3 by 2026, leaving only N4 to N6 programmes. She clarified that the Committee's recommendation to review the syllabus applies specifically to these remaining N4 to N6 programmes, aligning with the phase-out of N1 to N3.

On the issue of pit toilets, the Chairperson noted the Department's dedicated grant for their eradication and proposed setting a deadline. She suggested aiming to eliminate all pit toilets in schools by the end of the financial year, emphasising the Committee's support for this initiative.

Addressing Mr Zungula, she invited any additional comments or amendments.

With no further additions, the Chairperson declared the report adopted, despite the EFF's objection, which was duly noted.

Mr Brown then requested a mover and seconder to adopt the report.

Adoption of the report

Ms Xaba-Ntshaba moved for adoption, supported by Mr Louw, who reiterated his support with additional comments on addressing Committee concerns.

The Chairperson confirmed the adoption of the report, including Committee concerns and recommendations for the Department of Basic Education, Umalusi, and the SA Council for Educators (SACE) to address.

Ms Mashabela sought clarification on the EFF's objection, which the Chairperson acknowledged.

See report here https://pmg.org.za/tabled-committee-report/5884/

Closing remarks

The Chairperson announced the adjournment and details for the next session, thanking everyone for their participation and wishing them a pleasant weekend.

Meeting adjourned.