The South African Democratic Teachers’ Union (SADTU) has received, via WhatsApp, a proposal from Solidarity suggesting direct negotiations between our unions concerning the Bela Act and related issues.
SADTU wishes to make it clear that the act must be promulgated without any conditions because the legislation is the product of intense consultation for 10 years. Regulations and polices are developed after the Act is effective and not before the Act is effective. We call upon President Cyril Ramaphosa to promulgate the two contentious clauses in their current form and in full. Should this not occur, we will have no choice but to pursue legal action.
We affirm that the norms and standards are there and will be amended accordingly after the Act is effective.
The DA in the Western Cape passed a provincial Schools Act without having to develop regulations first and no one opposed that. Why is the president being forced to violate the law by being involved in the development of Regan’s norms and standards? That is too operational. We urge the president not to ignore the laws and the Constitution.
While SADTU advocates for mother tongue education for all African language speakers, we oppose Solidarity’s attempts to create divisions among schools based on language. The South African constitution promotes inclusivity, and we cannot allow language to be a tool for further separation.
SADTU remains committed to unity and inclusivity in our education system.
ISSUED BY: SADTU Secretariat