The Department of Basic Education (DBE) and the Education Labour Relations Council (ELRC) hosted the second session of the Annual Post Provisioning Norms (PPN) and Budget Workshop at the Southern Sun OR Hotel in Kempton Park from 22 to 23 October 2026.

This important Workshop, initiated by Basic Education Director-General, Mr Mathanzima Mweli, was attended by Heads of Departments, Senior Managers from the Provincial Education Departments (PEDs), National and Provincial Treasuries, as well as Organised Labour admitted at the ELRC. 

In his opening address, DG Mweli highlighted the importance of the Workshop since it converges all important stakeholders to share crucial information on the performance of the sector and government to device creative measures to deal with the challenges facing the sector.

The National Treasury presented a bleak picture of the financial performance of the country and how this affects funding of education priorities. PEDs had an opportunity to engage the National Treasury on serious matters which affect them as follows: PEDs not receiving full allocations from Provincial Treasuries as they should be; Unfunded mandates; Insufficient funding to grow posts on an annual basis despite the growth of learner numbers; and No funding for Grade R to realise the implementation of the Basic Education Laws Amendment (BELA) Act.

Delegates received presentations from PEDs, which painted a concerning picture in terms of meeting their targets. Many provinces experienced high vacancy rates, which have the potential to negatively affect service delivery. The dire state of financial affairs in some PEDs are a risk to keep the ship floating.

The Workshop has, however, provided an excellent platform for PEDs to share good practices and for organised labour to appreciate the challenges that PEDs are facing in filling vacancies.

In conclusion, PEDs, like an eagle, which when other birds "flee" from the weather, engages these strong winds and instead of seeking shelter, uses the turbulences to its advantage. We appreciate the excellent work done by our PEDs.