The Congress of South African Trade Unions (COSATU) has downplayed fears surrounding the Basic Education Laws Amendment (BELA) Act, urging critics to reconsider their stance. COSATU maintains that the act is a balanced and practical approach to education reform, addressing critical issues such as admissions, language policies, and school dress codes.
This follows Basic Education Minister Siviwe Gwraube’s announcement of an agreement with Solidarity on implementing the act. Despite disputes, COSATU and its affiliate, the South African Democratic Teachers Union (SADTU), are firm in their support for the BELA Act’s rollout.
Spokesperson Matthew Parks dismissed claims that the act poses a major threat, stating, “The BELA Act is a common-sense approach to managing schools. While there are disagreements, it’s not the crisis it’s portrayed to be.”
He also expressed confidence that the act wouldn’t destabilize the Government of National Unity (GNU): “I don’t think it will break the GNU, but it is an issue all parties must address constructively.”
Meanwhile, President Cyril Ramaphosa has reaffirmed his commitment to fostering dialogue, giving stakeholders three months to submit proposals on contentious sections of the act.
#COSATU #Urges #Calm #BELA #Act #Opposition #Concerns
