Basic Education Deputy Minister, Dr Reginah Mhaule, accompanied the Minister in the Presidency for Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities, Ms Sindisiwe Chikunga, to the United Nations Headquarters in New York this week to present South Africa’s report on the country’s progress in implementing the Beijing Platform for Action (Beijing+30).

Minister Chikunga is leading South Africa’s delegation to the 69th Session of the United Nations Commission on the Status of Women (CSW69), which takes place from 10 to 21 March 2025. The South African Beijing+30 report provides a comprehensive overview of the progress made in advancing gender equality from 2019 to 2024. It draws on data, statistics, and key trends to assess achievements and challenges in this area. The report highlights the 12 critical areas of concern outlined in the Beijing Platform for Action, including women and poverty, education and training, women’s health, violence against women, women and armed conflict, and women and the economy. In addition, it covers vital topics, including women in power and decision-making, human rights of women, women and the media, women and the environment, and the empowerment of the girl child. South Africa will join the global community in celebration of the 30th anniversary of the adoption of the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action, which coincides with South Africa’s Presidency of the G20, where women’s empowerment and gender equality are a priority.

“The basic education sector exemplifies women's leadership through Minister Siviwe Gwarube and myself. Women constitute the majority of our education workforce, with near-complete representation amongst Early Childhood Development Centre Managers — a powerful foundation for nurturing our youngest citizens' formative years. Yet challenges remain. We must increase women's representation in school leadership, district directorships, and senior management positions. The barriers women face in career advancement require our collective attention and action. As we celebrate women's contributions, we must acknowledge their crucial role in raising boys who respect and value gender equality. Women shape tomorrow's leaders, making their empowerment essential for social transformation. Additionally, we must address the sexual and gender diversity needs of women and girls in our sector, creating safer, more inclusive learning environments for all”, said Deputy Minister Mhaule.