Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi has said getting the right education is the cornerstone of building a strong country and a thriving economy.
Lesufi was speaking at the media launch of the golden jubilee celebrations of the 1976 youth rebellion held in Soweto, with the theme: “RESET@50 – The Future Calls”, with the slogan: “Our national commitment to the future, to freedom lives in every generation.”
In his address on Thursday, the Prime Minister stressed that South Africa's future depends on the quality, inclusivity and relevance of its schooling system.
He argued that meaningful reform in education is already underway, with the government taking bold steps to transform both teaching and learning in real time.
“We made a conscious decision to transform the curriculum while training teachers and learning while they teach in the classroom. Today, we have a curriculum that is accessible to everyone.”
Lesufi described the launch of the revised curriculum as one of the most important milestones in recent history, given its focus on inclusivity and historical truthfulness. He said the curriculum should reflect the country's collective past and honor figures such as Nelson Mandela, while also recognizing the broader struggles that have shaped the nation.
“The history of South Africa is not the history of one group of people. All South Africans must participate in shaping that history.”
The Prime Minister also stressed the importance of unity within the education system and called for ending disparities between schools and communities. He also emphasized that all children, regardless of background, should learn together under the same standards and conditions.
“There should be no society where some children have the privilege of being taught differently because of their circumstances. All teachers are trained from the same foundation, and all must serve every child equally.”
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He called for immediate improvement in access to infrastructure and resources as well as full implementation of the Basic Education Law Amendment (BELA) Act in all schools. This includes ensuring connectivity, access to books and integrating technology and innovation in classrooms.
He said, “Our schools must evolve. Children must connect with books in ways that inspire them, but they must also be equipped with the technological tools that define the future.”
Reflecting on the legacy of Youth Day (16 June), which commemorates the 1976 student uprising, Lesufi said the anniversary should serve as a reminder of both the progress made and the challenges that still remain.
Acknowledging that the country still has a long road to go, the Prime Minister said citizens must be inspired by the vision of a South Africa that is for all, especially children.
He also expressed concern about the social challenges affecting the youth, especially the spread of drugs, and called for a united effort from communities and law enforcement to combat this scourge that threatens the future of the country's youth.
“We cannot allow drugs to destroy our children. We must stand together and fight this scourge.”
Despite the challenges, the Prime Minister expressed optimism about Gauteng's role in driving youth development and economic growth. He said the province is committed to creating opportunities and ensuring youth are equipped to succeed.
“This province is ready to nurture youth, create opportunity, bring prosperity and our people will prosper with it.” He said. – sanews.gov.za