Edwin Naidu
Minister of Basic Education Angie Motshekga handed Goakanya Primary School in the North West to the Phasha community last Friday.
Motshekga said the new beginning at Goakanya Primary School reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to promises and commitments made in the Freedom Charter and the Constitution.
“This institution stands as a testament to our ongoing mission to transform our educational landscape, embodying our collective aspiration for a better, more inclusive South Africa. Over the past 30 years, our nation has embarked on a transformative journey to improve educational access and infrastructure, ensuring our children receive the quality basic education they deserve, and that is in line with section 29 of the Constitution, which guarantees the right to basic education,” Motshekga said.
She added: “In line with the Freedom Charter’s call to open the doors of learning, we have surpassed targets and set new records.”
Since the advent of democracy, Motshekga said the basic education sector in South Africa has undergone transformative growth and improvement from an under-resourced and racially segregated system, to achieve near-universal access for the compulsory schooling age group of 7 to 15 years by 2021, with attendance rates between 97% and 99%.
“This monumental achievement was supported by pro-poor policies that drastically reduced the costs associated with school attendance, thereby enhancing access. These pro-poor policies include the highly acclaimed National School Nutrition Programme (NSNP), which now provides nutritious meals to over 9.6 million learners across 21,274 ordinary public schools. It’s more than just a meal; it’s a lesson on the importance of food and the skills to grow it,” she said.
“The success of the NSNP isn’t solely a governmental triumph; it epitomises the collaborative potential of the public and private sectors. The story of the National School Nutrition Programme is multifaceted, weaving in elements of community, collaboration and empowerment.
“Through this initiative, thousands have found economic opportunities, with 61,314 volunteers from local communities cooking meals and receiving a stipend for their invaluable service,” the Minister added.
Motshekga said the broader, intangible impact is evident in our schools with improved punctuality, attendance, and an enhanced eagerness to learn, underscoring the belief that well-nourished children are better positioned to seize educational opportunities optimally.
“We are ardently working to introduce breakfasts across all National School Nutrition Programme schools. The second pro-poor policy that has markedly improved the trajectory of basic education over the past 30 years is the implementation of no-fee schools in our country. This critical measure has significantly influenced both school attendance and educational equity,” she said.
The Minister thanked every member of the Phasha community who contributed to protecting and supporting the project.
“Your vigilance and dedication ensure this school will serve as a citadel of learning for future generations. Your demonstrable sense of ownership and stewardship will safeguard the legacy of Goakanya Primary School,” she said.
INSIDE EDUCATION
