The Department of Basic Education (DBE) joined education stakeholders from across the country at the 8th National Congress of the Suid-Afrikaanse Onderwysersunie (SAOU), held under the theme: “Three Decades: One Vision”.

Addressing delegates at the Premier Hotel, Kempton Park on 24 June 2026, the Deputy Minister of Basic Education, Dr Reginah Mhaule, reflected on SAOU's 30-year journey of advocacy, professionalism and service to educators, whilst reaffirming the DBE's commitment to strengthening partnerships that advance quality, equitable and inclusive education.

The Deputy Minister described the milestone as a celebration of resilience, consistency and shared purpose. She acknowledged the significant role played by teacher unions in shaping South Africa's education landscape and highlighted the mature and constructive relationship that has developed between the DBE and SAOU over the years: “Education is not built in offices; it is built in classrooms, in the dedication of teachers, and in the dreams of learners,” she noted, emphasising the central role educators play in nation-building.

The address recognised the progress made in basic education, including expanded access to schooling, curriculum reforms, and strengthened learner support programmes such as the National School Nutrition Programme and ongoing efforts to improve foundational learning. She also spoke candidly about the challenges that continue to affect the sector, including low reading outcomes, teacher shortages in critical subjects like Mathematics and Science, and the escalating pressures of school violence and the broader socio-economic pressures that impact teaching and learning. She stressed that these are not abstract issues but the lived realities of educators.