The Congress of South African Students (Cosas) announced on Tuesday that it will pressure President Cyril Ramaphosa to remove Basic Education Minister Siviwe Gwarube, following her decision to boycott the signing of the Basic Education Laws Amendment (Bela) Act. According to a Johannesburg media briefing led by Cosas secretary-general Onesongo Matikinca, the ANC-affiliated student organization argues that Gwarube is unwilling to implement the legislation promulgated in September 2024, particularly clauses 4 and 5 concerning school admissions and language policies.
Protests and Hostility During Limpopo School Tour
Accompanied by police presence, Gwarube encountered protesting Cosas members who questioned her visit to a privileged, predominantly white Quintal 5 school rather than under-resourced public schools in townships or villages. Cosas national coordinator Sello Mahladisa stated that the learners’ movement called for her immediate dismissal after she chose not to attend Ramaphosa’s signing ceremony for the Bela Bill on Friday at the Union Buildings.
Political Stakes and Government of National Unity Tensions
The controversy centers on differing views within the Government of National Unity regarding the Bela Act, which aims to give provincial Heads of Departments more authority over school admissions and language policies while making Grade R the compulsory school-starting age. Matikinca accused Gwarube and her party of attempting to delay implementation past the 2029 elections to impose their own policies, while Mahladisa described her boycott as anti-progressive behavior that ignores the plight of black learners.
Did You Know? The Bela Act was officially promulgated in September 2024, introducing compulsory Grade R education alongside contested changes to school language and admission governance.
Escalation Plans and Demands for Presidential Action
Cosas leaders stated they plan to escalate demonstrations and march to the Union Buildings to demand immediate executive action from President Ramaphosa. Matikinca asserted that Gwarube has no right to place regulations on implementing an adopted legislative policy when the Act itself outlines clear timeframes for admissions. Meanwhile, the Department of Basic Education and spokesperson Lukhanyo Vanqa have been approached for comment regarding the unfolding protests and calls for the minister’s removal.
Frequently Asked Questions
When was the Bela Act promulgated?
The Bela Act was promulgated in September 2024.
Which specific clauses of the Act are causing concern?
Minister Gwarube has expressed concerns regarding the implementation of the entire Act, specifically highlighting clauses 4 and 5, which relate to school admissions and language policies.
What actions is Cosas taking against the Minister?
Cosas held a media briefing in Johannesburg and staged protests outside Pietersburg English Medium Primary School in Polokwane, announcing plans to escalate demonstrations and march to the Union Buildings to pressure President Ramaphosa into removing Gwarube.
How do you view the balance between coalition compromise and policy implementation in South Africa’s education sector?
Related reading