On World Teachers' Day, South Africa's Minister of Basic Education, Siviwe Gwarube, expressed gratitude to the country's 485,000 educators, acknowledging their crucial role in shaping the nation's future. The minister emphasized that no education system can be stronger than the people who stand at the front of its classrooms. This sentiment was echoed during the 26th National Teacher Awards, where Ms Mpho Mosala of Letlotlo Primary School was named the 2026 National Teacher of the Year.
Minister Gwarube highlighted the significance of International Teachers' Day, National Teacher Appreciation Month, and the National Teacher Awards in recognizing the excellence and commitment of teachers. The minister noted that these events serve as a reminder of the extraordinary societal function of teachers, who can transform the lives of children and help them achieve their full potential. The minister congratulated Ms Mosala and all the finalists and award recipients, while also thanking every teacher for their hard work and dedication.
The South African government has undertaken a strategic reorientation of basic education under the "strong foundations for strong futures" strategy. This initiative has led to significant progress, including the registration of over 13,300 Early Childhood Development (ECD) centres last year, exceeding the target of 10,000. As a result, approximately 1.2 million children are now accessing registered ECD programmes and will enter formal schooling better prepared. The government is investing R10-billion in ECD subsidies and an additional R496-million to create 115,000 ECD spaces in three rural provinces.
Minister Gwarube emphasized that the most valuable resource in the education system is a dedicated and well-trained teacher who is supported to deliver a quality curriculum. The minister acknowledged that teachers are working in a world experiencing extraordinary economic, technological, and demographic change, and that artificial intelligence cannot replace a quality teacher in the classroom. To support teachers, the minister has committed to reducing unnecessary bureaucracy and administrative burdens, allowing teachers to focus on what matters most: teaching and supporting learners.
In line with this commitment, the Department of Basic Education is finalizing a circular that will significantly reduce the administrative burden on teachers. The circular aims to minimize the number of reporting tools in schools, freeing up more time for teachers to devote to teaching and learner support. Minister Gwarube also called on teachers to prioritize their professionalism, ethical conduct, and the safety of learners, emphasizing that there can be no compromise on these essential aspects.
To ensure learner safety, Minister Gwarube urged all teachers to undergo vetting against both the National Child Protection Register and the National Register of Sex Offenders. The minister expressed concern that too few teachers have been vetted, posing an intolerable risk to learner safety in schools. By taking this step, teachers can demonstrate their commitment to protecting children and maintaining the trust of the community.
As World Teachers' Day and National Teacher Appreciation Month come to a close, Minister Gwarube extended her gratitude to all 485,000 educators in South Africa, thanking them for their tireless efforts and dedication to shaping the nation's future. The minister's sentiments were personal, as she reflected on her own grandmother, a teacher who inspired her to pursue her career in education. With appreciation and recognition, the minister concluded that the true architects of a nation are its teachers, who have the power to transform lives and create a brighter future.
Key points
- The South African government has invested R10-billion in ECD subsidies and R496-million to create 115,000 ECD spaces in three rural provinces.
- Minister Gwarube has committed to reducing unnecessary bureaucracy and administrative burdens on teachers.
- The Department of Basic Education is finalizing a circular to minimize reporting tools in schools and free up teachers' time for teaching and learner support.
