President Cyril Ramaphosa Activates the BELA Act, Marking a Major Step in South Africa's Education Reform

In a decisive move last Friday, President Cyril Ramaphosa signed a Presidential Proclamation to bring the Basic Education Laws Amendment (BELA) Act into immediate operation. This act, passed by South Africa’s 6th democratic Parliament on October 26, 2023, and assented by the President on September 13, 2024, aims to overhaul the educational framework of the nation to ensure it is more effective, inclusive, and equitable.

President Ramaphosa, in a detailed statement released on December 20, 2024, expressed that after thoughtful consideration and extensive consultations with the Government of National Unity (GNU) and various stakeholders, all sections of the BELA Act would be implemented without delay. He, however, noted that the implementation of sections 4 and 5 would be postponed for three months to allow further deliberation among parties that had previously contested these sections concerning admission and language policies.

This three-month period is intended to foster consensus and accommodate divergent views, ensuring that when implemented, the Act aligns with the nuances of South Africa’s diverse educational needs. The President emphasized that should no agreement be reached by the end of this period, directives would be issued for the full enforcement of the Act.

During the announcement, President Ramaphosa underscored that the amendment act is a critical component of South Africa's strategy to transform its education system. Honing in on the constitutional mandate, the BELA Act reaffirms the right to basic education for every child and upholds the principle of receiving education in one's language of choice, where feasible. This includes major vernacular languages and, notably, the South African Sign Language.

Furthermore, Ramaphosa mandated the Minister of Basic Education, Siviwe Gwarube, to ensure that all preparations, including setting the norms and standards for implementing the law, especially the universal access to Grade R, are met with immediacy. He stressed the importance of all bodies and officials involved acting strictly within the frameworks of the law and constitution.

The ultimate goal, as stated by the President, is to leave no child behind, regardless of their socio-economic background, residence, or language spoken. This reform is part of a broader effort to craft an education system that not only meets the constitutional rights of South Africans but also empowers children to succeed in a diverse and ever-evolving global landscape.

As the BELA Act steps into effect, it remains a beacon of hope for many who advocate for educational reforms that promote both equality and quality. It’s a significant stride towards actualizing an education system that can adapt, represent, and fulfill the diverse needs of the South African populace.