Madam Deputy Speaker, I think the attempt to claim anti-apartheid struggle credentials on the part of the DA is increasingly becoming laughable. They know well that their party was established after we had achieved freedom and not before. [Applause.] What they did, was allow us to wage the struggle. Then they formed a party and got into Parliament after we fought hard at the doors of Parliament, and then several years later suddenly attempted to get a mantle of freedom fighter. We understand history, and we know that such mantles are not won by rhetoric but won by struggle.
Madam Deputy Speaker, I think one would agree with hon members who have referred to the matter of the action by SA Democratic Teachers Union, Sadtu, that indeed we are troubled by the impact on learning in our country and all of us should be equally troubled. I know that the Minister of Basic Education is ceased with this matter and working hard to find the solution, along with several other colleagues. However, I would say we will succeed in showing our commitment to education when it becomes a subject of concern for all of us.
I would like to express my admiration to the children at a high school in Protea North, yesterday, who ensured that they studied the whole day and supported each other. [Applause.] Those are young people who understand the meaning of what one derives from education. I also thank the parents who went to some schools and sat with children and helped them with reading. We are beginning to see a commitment and recognition by the nation of South Africa, that all of us together must regard education as the key instrument for achieving transformation in our country. If we could get to a point where we do not make statements in celebration of what happened, but rather call on all of us to regard education as an essential service in the context of changing the lives of our people, then I think we would win a great victory in education. Thank you. [Applause.]