BELA Bill: South Africa’s education shift

On Thursday, 26 October 2023, the South African National Assembly passed the Basic Education Laws Amendment Bill, or the BELA Bill. This landmark decision comes after years of grappling with challenges in the country’s education system.

The BELA Bill addresses these issues with a multi-faceted approach that promises to reshape the educational landscape.

ALSO READ: ‘Misleading and senseless’: Panyaza Lesufi on DA picket over BELA Bill

The primary focus of the BELA Bill is fivefold

1. Compulsory Grade R: The bill mandates that Grade R (the reception year) becomes compulsory, ensuring that every child begins their educational journey from a young age.
2. Alignment with Constitutional Rights: The amendments aim to align the education system with the Bill of Rights, particularly emphasizing the right to procedurally fair administrative action.
3. Enhancing Accountability: The bill introduces financial and public accountability frameworks for governing bodies and provincial departments, a significant step towards greater transparency in resource allocation.
4. Administrative Improvements: The BELA Bill seeks to improve admissions policies, particularly for undocumented learners, ensuring equitable access to education.
5. Technical and Substantive Adjustments: It includes technical and substantive changes, addressing ambiguities in existing legislation and strengthening mechanisms for enforcing penalties and addressing offenses.

These changes respond to the evolving needs of South African communities, court judgments, and insights from school monitoring efforts.

ALSO READ: Lesufi baffled by DA targeting him on BELA Bill

The Bill comprises 56 clauses

The BELA Bill comprises 56 clauses, covering various areas, including learner attendance, the Code of Conduct for learners, Home Schooling, rationalisation of schools, the abolition of corporal punishment, language policy, admission policy, and the criminalisation of school disruptions.

“All the above-mentioned clauses in the Bill are about providing access to education and providing a child friendly environment as per the dictates of international treaties,” said Minister Angie Motshekga in a Media briefing.

ALSO READ: Minister Angie Motshekga: All set for Matric Exams

Importantly, the bill does not diminish the powers of School Governing Bodies (SGBs) but seeks to harmonise their authority with the guidance of the provincial Head of Department (HOD).

This change aims to prevent discriminatory practices in language and admission policies, ensuring equal opportunities for all learners.

ALSO READ: Maimane says Minister Angie Motshekga misled the nation

The BELA Bill signifies a pivotal moment in South Africa’s education landscape, promising a fairer and more inclusive education system.

CLICK HERE TO READ MORE ARTICLES BY NOZIBUSISO MAZIBUKO