In the current climate of educational reform in South Africa, the Basic Education Laws Amendment (Bela) Act has ignited a passionate debate among political parties, educators, and parents alike. While the act aims to enhance the educational framework, it has also faced significant opposition regarding its implications for school governance, language policies, and admissions criteria. Amidst this backdrop, organizations like Afrika Tikkun Bambanani shine a light on the importance of prioritizing the needs of children and delivering quality education.
Minister of Basic Education Siviwe Gwarube addressed the controversy surrounding the implementation of the Basic Education Laws Amendment (Bela) Act during the State of the Nation Address (SONA) debate on Tuesday. The bill has attracted fierce opposition from various political parties and organisations, with concerns ranging from governance autonomy to its potential impact on school culture and structure. Despite the contentious discussions, Gwarube has emphasized that the act should not be politicized, as such distractions can detract from the primary goal: enhancing the learning experience for students.
The Bela Act was introduced with the intention of streamlining regulations affecting basic education. Advocates argue that it is essential for ensuring that schools adhere to national standards, while critics worry that it undermines the autonomy of school governing bodies. However, what remains clear is the urgent need to focus on quality education, particularly in the early childhood development (ECD) sector, where foundational learning is critical to long-term academic success.
As the discussions surrounding the Bela Act continue, Afrika Tikkun Bambanani remains committed to its mission of ensuring that every Early Childhood Development (ECD) child in its program receives quality education. Over the past four years, the program has reached 500 ECD centres, upskilling over 3,000 practitioners and providing essential curriculum and resources to over 40,000 children. The organisation’s initiatives underscore the importance of community involvement, collaboration, and the necessity of quality education in shaping the future of South Africa’s youth.
The Role of the Bela Act in Strengthening Early Learning
Theresa Michael, a key advocate in the Bambanani initiative, believes that the Bela Bill presents an opportunity to create a stronger and more inclusive early learning system in South Africa. “By enforcing national standards and ensuring accountability, the Bela Act can drive improvements in the quality of education that young children receive. Our work in upskilling practitioners and equipping centres aligns with the need for structured, high-quality early learning environments. If implemented effectively, this act can help bridge the gap between policy and practice, ultimately benefiting the youngest learners,” she explains.
Similarly, Tessa Forman, who has been at the forefront of empowering practitioners through training and mentorship, sees the Bela Act as a catalyst for meaningful change. “Many ECD centres operate without the necessary oversight, leading to inconsistencies in teaching quality and resource allocation. The act, if supported with the right implementation strategies, could provide much-needed standardisation and support. At Afrika Tikkun Bambanani, we have witnessed the transformative power of structured training and curriculum implementation. If the government aligns its efforts with organisations like ours, we can ensure that every child gets a fair start in life,” she says.
Testimonials from Practitioners and Children
The impact of Afrika Tikkun Bambanani’s efforts can be seen through the voices of those involved in the program.
Practitioner Testimonial: “I have seen firsthand how the training provided by Afrika Tikkun has changed my approach to teaching. I now understand the importance of creating a stimulating environment for the children. They are eager to learn, and it fills me with joy to see their progress each day!” – Thandi, ECD Practitioner
Child Testimonial: “I love going to school! We play, sing, and learn new things every day. My teacher helps me with my letters, and I can’t wait to read books!” – Sipho, Age 5
Practitioner Testimonial: “The resources and curriculum support from Afrika Tikkun have made a significant difference in our centre. The children are more engaged and excited about learning. It’s rewarding to witness their growth.” – Naledi, ECD Practitioner
As the country navigates the complexities of educational reform, one thing remains clear: the focus must remain on the children. Organizations like Afrika Tikkun Bambanani continue to play a crucial role in driving quality education forward, demonstrating that collaboration and commitment can lead to meaningful change in South Africa’s learning landscape.