Press statement
17 September 2024
The Tiger Brands Foundation (TBF) welcomes President Cyril Ramaphosa’s signing of the Basic Education Laws Amendment (BELA) Bill into law, as it has the potential to positively impact schools in vulnerable communities where the Foundation operates.
The BELA Bill represents a significant shift in South Africa’s educational landscape. While it has sparked considerable debate, its potential benefits for schools in vulnerable communities are noteworthy” says TBF Director Eugene Absolom.
He notes that one of the most impactful provisions of the BELA Bill is the mandate that Grade R (the reception year before Grade 1) becomes compulsory. This change is particularly beneficial for learners in previously disadvantaged areas, where financial constraints often prevent early childhood education.
“By making Grade R mandatory, the Bill ensures that all learners, regardless of their socio-economic background, start their formal education on an equal footing. Early childhood education is key for proper cognitive and social development, and this amendment aims to level the playing field from the very start,” he says.
“The Bill also proposes giving provincial Heads of Departments more control over schools’ language and admission policies. This shift aims to address historical inequalities and ensure that language is not a barrier to accessing quality education. For schools in vulnerable communities, this means a more inclusive approach that can accommodate diverse linguistic backgrounds, developing a more equitable educational environment.”
Furthermore, the BELA Bill reinforces the ban on corporal punishment and harsh initiation practices in schools. This, says Absolom, aligns with broader child protection laws and ensures a safer, more supportive learning environment. For schools in vulnerable communities, where such practices might still be prevalent, this provision is a step towards creating a more nurturing educational setting.
“While the BELA Bill has its critics, its potential to positively impact vulnerable schools in South Africa is significant. These changes are crucial for addressing the deep-rooted inequalities in South Africa’s education system and ensuring that every learner has the opportunity to succeed,” says Absolom.
The Tiger Brands Foundation provides a hot and nutritious breakfast every school day to thousands of learners across South Africa, which complements the National School Nutrition Programme (NSNP) – a government initiative that provides one nutritious meal to all learners in primary and secondary schools across all provinces of South Africa. Statistics South Africa reveals that child hunger remains a huge challenge in the country, with more than half a million households with children aged five years or younger experiencing hunger.
Given the magnitude of the malnutrition crisis in South Africa, in-school nutrition programmes are a priority investment, as they support not only the learner but also the learning process. “We look forward to the positive impact the BELA Bill will have on the schools we serve, helping to build a healthy and educated population,” he concludes.