On 26 May 2016, Basic Education Deputy Minister, Mr Enver Surty, led a panel of constitutional and human rights compatriots at Freedom Park in Pretoria in commemoration of the 20th Anniversary of the South African Constitution. Part of the commemoration was to engage learners on the significant role of the Constitution in shaping our democracy and uniting South Africans. The panel consisted of the South African Human Rights Commissioner, Adv Mohamed Shafie Ameermia, the CEO of Freedom Park, Ms Jane Mufamadi and Social Cohesion advocate, Mr Tshepo Mashiane.
Hundreds of learners from various schools attended the event to exchange views on challenges towards the attainment of multicultural diversity and social cohesion. The first session commenced with the hoisting of both the South African and African Union flag, as well as the recital of both anthems in recognition of Africa Month celebrations. The procession continued to the Gallery of Leaders. It is at this heritage site where the historic records of various heroes and heroines, who fought for freedom, are being exhibited.
During the second session, a presentation by the various panellists was followed by interactive engagements with the learners. Deputy Minister Surty outlined the development process of the South African Constitution, which involved dedicated and remarkable heroes and heroines of our country.
Deputy Minister Surty further indicated that our Constitution serves as one of the most persuasive and relevant instruments for strengthening social cohesion and nation building. Part of this includes the importance of understanding that rights comes with responsibilities. Mr Surty said, “We should honour our liberation struggle heroes and heroines who fought tirelessly to defend and promote the Freedom Charter to honour those who fought for democracy. Any form of racism or discrimination is unlawful and should not be tolerated.” Mr Surty eluded that discrimination against individuals on the basis of gender, race or language should be challenged in court. Learners and teachers should create an environment that promotes respect and co-existence that embraces cultural diversity.
Part of the discussion was dominated by concerns raised over the prevalence of racial and cultural intolerances, existing inequalities within the education system and the low benchmark for progression in the lower grades as opposed to the Senior Phase and Further Education and Training pass requirements. Of critical concern was the violence, damaging and burning of schools in Vuwani. On the issue of burning schools in Vuwani, the DBE is currently busy mobilising communities and resources from sister departments and the private sector to sustain schooling in Limpopo.
In response to questions raised during the interactive sessions, the Deputy Minister pointed out that, in support of children’s rights and increasing access to schooling, a huge milestone has been reached in South Africa, with nearly 98% of South African children having access to Early Childhood Development (ECD). Government is working very hard to strengthen ECD and to address the learning gaps in the Foundation Phase as part of preparing learners for higher grades. More than 80% of children are in no-fee schools. Furthermore, more than 7 million learners are being fed with a healthy meal on a daily basis through the National School Nutrition Programme (NSNP). The Department continues to build state-of-the-art schools through the Accelerated School Infrastructure Delivery Initiative (ASIDI).
Nompumelelo Khoza, a learner from M.H Baloyi Secondary School affirmed that these activities are very critical in nation building. “The most powerful tool in building a better society is through a solid social cohesion foundation, so let’s work together to build a united South Africa,” said Khoza. Nayrow Cantries from Prosperitus Secondary School said the event has inspired him to follow his career with confidence.