Question NW1688 to the Minister of Basic Education to ask the Minister of Basic Education
10 June 2021 - NW1688
Nodada, Mr BB to ask the Minister of Basic Education to ask the Minister of Basic Education
What (a) are the effects of budget cuts on feeding schemes in each province and (b) is the total number of meals that have had to be reduced as a result of budget cuts?
Reply:
a) The budget cut on the Grant in 2020/21 totaled 1.5% over the 2021 MTEF. This cut has affected all provinces; especially on priorities, such as the meal costs, which were not substantially increased against the rising food prices. Also the honoraria for Volunteer Food Handlers could not be increased in line with the Ministerial Determination of the Department of Employment and Labour.
b, The number of learners/meals was affected by the rotation timetable. However, no meals were reduced, as all learners attending school or collecting meals/food parcels were catered for at the school.