KZN education: systemic reform needed

THE education sector in KwaZulu-Natal is grappling with immense financial challenges, a situation highlighted by recent comments from Premier Thamsanqa Ntuli and Minister of Basic Education, Siviwe Gwarube.

- SIPHO JACK and WANDISWA NXUMALO

During a briefing focused on the province's financial constraints, officials outlined strategies aimed at preserving the operations of poorer schools within the region. Yet, the hope for lasting solutions seems dismal, as experts warned that the proposed measures were merely temporary fixes to a much deeper systemic problem.

Professor Wayne Hugo, an educational specialist, criticised the framework being adopted by both the provincial government and the education department. He contended that the people of KZN were being offered a false choice between two flawed financial interventions.

"It's unfortunate that money from citizens is wasted on predictable problems like ghost employees and poorly managed contracts," Hugo said, indicating that the crisis threatens not only teacher salaries but also the stability of the upcoming 2025 examinations for pupils.

The briefings highlighted the urgent need for funds for Quintile 1-3 schools, which relied heavily on government support

"These schools are the first tier of our country's education, and ensuring their financial stability is critical," stated Gwarube.