By Lehlohonolo Lehana.
President Cyril Ramaphosa has praised the teaching profession as a cornerstone of national development, likening teachers to “devoted gardeners” who nurture and cultivate the minds of learners across the nation.
Ramaphosa addressed educators as South Africa joined the global celebration of World Teachers’ Day. The event paid tribute to the nation’s educators for their tireless dedication.
In his keynote address, Ramaphosa praised the Basic Education Department for maintaining the National Teaching Awards.
The National Teaching Awards, first established in 2000 by the late Minister of Education, Professor Kader Asmal, were created to acknowledge outstanding performance in education.
“This enduring commitment to honouring our educators speaks to their unique and treasured place in our country. All of us are who we are because of the teachers we once had,” he said.
Ramaphosa reminisced about his own teachers at Tshilidzi Primary School in Soweto and Mphaphuli High School at Sibasa in Venda, Limpopo.
“I remember many of these fine educators not just for the knowledge they imparted, but also for their guidance and encouragement. All these years later, they still hold a special place in my heart,” he said.
He emphasised that a good teacher is a role model who inspires kids to reach their potential.
“But a teacher who disregards their responsibilities, who rules by fear, can demoralise a child, damage their self-esteem and put them off learning,” he said.
Ramaphosa urged everyone to support the implementation of the Basic Education Laws Amendment (Bela) Act.
“The passage of the Basic Education Laws Amendment Act is part of ongoing efforts to build an education system that is more effective and more equitable. Among other things, the Act provides for early learning foundations to be strengthened, promotes greater accountability of parents for their children’s learning and promotes inclusivity in the classroom,” said the president.
Ramaphosa signed the bill into law in September but excluded the implementation of two clauses for three months for further consultation. These clauses deal with school admissions and language.
The Act, which has sparked controversy in Parliament, faces opposition from the Democratic Alliance (DA), with Education Minister Siviwe Gwarube expressing concerns about its current form and urging a reconsideration before enforcement.
However, Ramaphosa called on all stakeholders to collaborate across government levels to ensure the Act’s effective implementation, stressing the importance of working together for the betterment of the education system.