Cape town: Basic Education Minister Siviwe Gwarube has called for collective leadership and stronger partnerships across government, universities, and communities to transform South Africa's education system. She highlighted the necessity for shared stewardship and reciprocal accountability to achieve this transformation.
According to South African Government News Agency, Minister Gwarube addressed the need for unified efforts at the Western Cape G20 Provincial Education Indaba held at the Century City Conference Centre, Canal Walk. The event, themed 'Quality Foundational Learning' with an emphasis on Early Childhood Development and 'Educational Professional Development for a Changing World,' aligns with President Cyril Ramaphosa's call for public participation in G20 discussions.
Gwarube emphasized that the Indaba reflects South Africa's commitment as the G20 President to bring international dialogues closer to the citizens. She noted that as a leader of the upcoming G20 summit in 2025, the country aims to ensure that global priorities are informed by the realities faced by its people.
The Minister praised the Western Cape for its significant contributions to South Africa's economy and education sector, citing its ability to create jobs and maintain low unemployment rates. She stressed the importance of connecting global priorities with local realities, from early childhood education in George to rural schools across the Karoo and the West Coast.
Minister Gwarube outlined two main G20 education priorities: Quality Foundational Learning and Professional Development for a Changing World. She highlighted the need for a South African model inspired by global best practices but rooted in local realities.
The Minister proposed six areas for collaboration to enhance education in the province: policy alignment, professional learning communities, teacher supply and demand planning, strengthening work-integrated learning, seamless induction and continuous professional development, and joint monitoring, evaluation, and research.
Gwarube urged the delegates to focus on practical outcomes and ensure that the Indaba results in meaningful partnerships and commitments. She called for a dual responsibility in education between the Department of Basic Education, the Western Cape Provincial Education Department, universities, and communities to drive the envisioned transformation.