By Lehlohonolo Lehana.
The Minister of Basic Education, Siviwe Gwarube has officially appointed the 15 members of the National Education and Training Council (NETC).
The NETC established in 2009 under the National Education Policy Act (NEPA), It will serve as an independent advisory body to the Minister on key education policies and reforms, provide inputs on draft national education policy, and report annually to the Minister on its activities.
Speaking at the announcement briefing in Pretoria, Gwarube explained that just 12 days after her appointment as Minister, she addressed Parliament and committed to operationalise the NETC to provide expert advice on education policies and reforms in the country.
“It has been a year of hard work and significant reorientation. I am pleased to inform South Africans that we have delivered on that promise. Today, the NETC will hold its inaugural meeting at the Department of Basic Education’s head office in Pretoria.
“When I assumed this responsibility, I made it clear that South Africa’s basic education system could not continue on the path of incremental adjustments. It needed a decisive shift in strategy, vision and energy,” Gwarube said.
The new Council will be chaired by Penelope Vinjevold, with members drawn from across academia, civil society, and education management. They include:
- Mrs Khathutshelo Onica Dederen.
- Dr Xolani Khohliso.
- Ms Zanele Mabaso.
- Ms Madimetja Dina Mamashela.
- Prof Judith McKenzie.
- Prof Paulus Jacobus Mentz.
- Mr Lebogang Stephen Montjane.
- Ms Mmatsetsweu Ruby Motaung.
- Prof Nicolette Roberts.
- Ms Maite Getrude Rammala.
- Ms Marie-Louise Samuels.
- Dr Selvia Kista (Mona) Singh.
- Dr Glodean Qondile Tintswalo Thani.
- Ms Penelope Vinjevold (Chairperson).
- Dr Gabrielle Wills.
According to the Minister, the NETC will provide expert advice on pressing issues such as the review of the school resourcing model, assessment and progression requirements, reducing administrative burdens on teachers, and strengthening foundational learning.
In addition, the Council’s advice must give guidance on how to ensure a smooth transition from Early Childhood Care and Education into compulsory Grade R, and on progressively strengthening mother tongue instruction in the early grades.
“The appointment of the National Education and Training Council is more than an administrative milestone. It marks the start of a new era for policymaking in basic education in South Africa,” the Minister said.
The Minister stressed that the Council will not replace statutory bodies like the Council of Education Ministers or Heads of Education Departments Committee but will serve as an evidence-led advisory structure to supplement their work. She added that it is not a decision-making body. Its role is advisory.