Deputy Speaker, in order to radically transform education in South Africa in accordance with our core constitutional values, we must begin by radically improving the quality of basic education across the board.
Quality education of the same standard must be available to all South African learners, as this is the cornerstone of the future success of this country and its people. Yet, universal and standardized quality education costs money and with inadequate funding, this goal will not be achieved. This is a reality that we must face. Simply stated, more funding must be provided.
I am consistently hearing from the national Department of Basic Education that the fault in respect of the provision of quality education lies with the provincial education departments. The national Department of Basic Education must ensure a national standard of quality education across each province and not pass the buck to provincial departments when the standard of education is found to be lower than the nationally set targets. The department must take responsibility for its mandate and
the IFP will ensure it is held accountable, in this respect.
Equity, particularly from the viewpoint of schools in historically disadvantaged areas must be prioritised and addressed in all areas of education.
Having made known the above serious concerns, the IFP will support the budgetary review and recommendation report. Thank you.
Afrikaans: