Well, I think we already have a national identity through all our national symbols, especially our flag. I think South Africans are all flying the flag. I think when we go to our townships and even when we are driving our cars, many South Africans are flying the flag. When we also go to the stadia, we see South African flags proudly flying from all our population groups. Our young kids and the youth also have their faces painted, showing off their flag and our colours.
I also believe that, through the national anthem, we have been able to unite the nation. This is an anthem that is a product of many consultations and debates, and all of us agreed that there is something that makes us proud and makes us have a sense of belonging in our national anthem. I have already referred to the different languages that are used in the national anthem.
I think the whole programme and focus of our department, which is social cohesion and nation-building, is a programme that builds and unites South Africa to ensure that we have one national identity. I am also reminded by the Minister here that our coat of arms is also another important symbol that goes way back and uses the language of our ancestors, the Khoisan people of South Africa. Therefore, I think this government has gone out of its way to ensure that we are united. The onus is now upon all of us to teach our children and our constituencies.
This year the President has even launched a new campaign stipulating that all political party leaders in Parliament must attend national days. They have also been given an opportunity to speak at the national days because when we have Freedom Day or Human Rights Day, it is all about our liberation and freedom. All of us have a responsibility to defend this hard- won democracy if we claim to be democrats. [Applause.]
I think the government has done all it can. But I want to say that "Working together we can do more". [Applause.]
Monitoring of implementation of inclusive education, and challenges and progress in respect thereof
30. Mr D D Gamede (ANC) asked the Minister of Basic Education:
Whether her department is monitoring the implementation of inclusive education; if not, what are the challenges; if so, (a) what has been the progress and (b) where, especially in KwaZulu-Natal?