Have Your Say: Basic Education Laws Amendment Bill [B 2B-2022], S76
Invitation for Public Submissions
The Select Committee on Education and Technology, Sports, Arts and Culture of the National Council of Provinces invites stakeholders and interested individuals to submit written comments on the Basic Education Laws Amendment Bill [B 2B-2022] (S76).
The Bill proposes to amend the South African Schools Act, 1996 (Act No. 84 of 1996), and the Employment of Educators Act, 1998 (Act No. 76 of 1898) (the SASA and the EEA, respectively), so as to align them with developments in the education landscape. Also, to ensure that systems of learning are put in place in a manner that gives effect to the right to basic education enshrined in section 29(1) of the Constitution of the Republic of South Africa, 1996.
Amongst others, the Bill seeks to amend certain definitions, provide that attendance of Grade R is compulsory, and to provide for system improvements in terms of admission of learners to public schools. It also provides for financial and public accountability frameworks for governing bodies and provincial departments. The Bill further provides for additional regulatory powers of the Minister and enhancing decision-making and oversight powers of heads of departments and members of the executive councils. The Bill also proposes technical and substantive adjustments to clarify certain existing provisions, insert provisions that are not provided for in existing legislation and strengthen enforcement mechanisms for offences and penalties.
Any person or organisation wishing to submit written comments may direct their submissions for the attention of Ms Noluthando Skaka, the Committee Secretary, via email belabill@parliament.gov.za Ms Noluthando Skaka can be reached on 083 709 8520 for enquiries. Written submissions must reach Parliament by no later than Friday, 31 January 2024 at 16:00. In addition to written submissions, kindly indicate if you wish to make an oral submission to substantiate a written submission.
All correspondence should be addressed to Mr E M Nchabeleng, Chairperson: SC on Education and Technology, Sports, Arts and Culture and marked for the attention of Ms N Skaka. In your submission, kindly provide the name, surname, telephone number, and email address of the person or organisation submitting the comments.
Copies of the Bill can be obtained from Ms N Skaka on Cell 083 709 8520 or at https://www.parliament.gov.za.
Issued by Mr E M Nchabeleng MP, Chairperson: SC on Education and Technology, Sports, Arts and Culture.
Arrange a tour