SADTU SPEAKS OUT AGAINST EXCLUSION OF ALLIANCE PARTNERS IN BELA ACT DISCUSSIONS
The South African Democratic Teachers’ Union (SADTU) has raised concerns over the exclusion of alliance partners in the discussions surrounding the Basic Education Laws Amendment (BELA) Act. The union, which represents over 260,000 teachers across the country, has expressed disappointment in the lack of consultation and collaboration with the tripartite alliance partners in the development of this important legislation.
In a recent statement, SADTU highlighted the fact that the BELA Act has far-reaching implications for the education sector and therefore, it is crucial that all stakeholders are given a voice in its development. The union has accused the Department of Basic Education of disregarding the input and concerns of the tripartite alliance partners, namely the African National Congress (ANC) and the Congress of South African Trade Unions (COSATU).
SADTU has emphasized that the tripartite alliance has always been a key player in shaping policies and legislation in South Africa, and it is concerning that they were not included in the discussions surrounding the BELA Act. The union has also pointed out that the exclusion of alliance partners goes against the principles of the National Democratic Revolution, which promotes unity and collaboration among all progressive forces in the country.
Furthermore, SADTU has expressed its disappointment in the lack of transparency and accountability in the development of the BELA Act. The union has stated that it was only made aware of the Act through media reports and was not given the opportunity to engage with the Department of Basic Education on the matter. This lack of consultation and communication has left SADTU feeling marginalized and excluded from the decision-making process.
The BELA Act, which was signed into law by President Cyril Ramaphosa in December 2019, aims to amend various education laws in order to improve the quality of education in South Africa. However, SADTU believes that the exclusion of alliance partners in the development of this legislation has compromised its effectiveness and could potentially lead to unintended consequences.
SADTU has called on the Department of Basic Education to urgently address these concerns and engage in meaningful consultations with all stakeholders, including the tripartite alliance partners. The union has also urged the government to uphold the principles of democracy and inclusivity in the development of policies and legislation that affect the education sector.
In response to SADTU’s concerns, the Department of Basic Education has acknowledged the importance of collaboration and consultation with all stakeholders in the development of the BELA Act. The department has stated that it will engage with the tripartite alliance partners and other stakeholders to address their concerns and ensure that their input is considered in the implementation of the Act.
SADTU has welcomed this response and has expressed its willingness to work with the Department of Basic Education to ensure that the BELA Act is implemented in a manner that benefits all stakeholders, including teachers, learners, and parents. The union has also emphasized the need for ongoing collaboration and communication between the government and its alliance partners in the development of education policies and legislation.
In conclusion, SADTU has highlighted the importance of inclusivity and collaboration in the development of the BELA Act. The union has called for the government to uphold the principles of democracy and engage in meaningful consultations with all stakeholders in the education sector. It is only through working together that we can ensure the delivery of quality education for all South African learners.
