A rallying cry for the future: Let’s transform South Africa’s education system together

The President’s recent address at the Basic Education Lekgotla has reaffirmed the critical role of education in shaping South Africa’s future. His emphasis on foundational learning, technological adaptation, and vocational pathways reflects the urgency of aligning the education system with both global trends and national imperatives. However, while acknowledging the progress made, particularly in matric results, we must confront the stark reality that much work remains to be done to ensure inclusive and equitable quality education for all. The Challenge of Foundational Learning The president rightly highlighted the alarming literacy and numeracy crisis in early education, with more than 80% of Grade 4 learners unable to read for meaning in any language. This fundamental gap not only impairs future academic achievement but also perpetuates cycles of inequality and economic disadvantage.…