In conclusion, we are encouraged by the coherent vision of the department to address many of these challenges, as alluded to in the report and as articulated in the Action Plan to 2014: Towards the Realisation of Schooling 2025. It is crucial that all education stakeholders - including Parliament, principals, teachers, unions, parents, NGOs, institutions of higher education and business - address themselves to assisting the department in these challenges. Education is not only the responsibility of the Department of Basic Education, but it is a societal issue.