The African National Congress Youth League (ANCYL) has endorsed the Basic Education Laws Amendment (BELA) Bill, highlighting its potential to address educational inequalities in South Africa. ANCYL spokesperson Zama Khanyase described the bill as a critical step toward a fair and inclusive education system, benefiting learners from all socio-economic backgrounds.
While facing opposition from some groups, the ANCYL views the BELA Bill as an essential tool for ensuring that all schools uphold constitutional values like non-discrimination and equality. Khanyase emphasized the need to dismantle exclusionary practices that have long disadvantaged marginalized communities.
A key aspect of the bill is the provision granting the Minister of Basic Education greater oversight on school admission policies, aiming to prevent racial and class-based exclusion. “No child should be denied access to quality education due to discriminatory policies,” Khanyase said.
The ANCYL also praised the bill’s focus on School Governing Bodies (SGBs), aiming to strengthen and democratize decision-making while preventing the misuse of power that perpetuates inequality. Additionally, the bill addresses discriminatory language policies that have acted as barriers to education, fostering linguistic diversity and promoting national unity.
As the bill moves toward implementation, with a three-month delay for further discussions, the ANCYL calls for all stakeholders to support it, recognizing it as a vital tool for transforming the education system and securing the future of South Africa’s youth.
