This is according to Education MEC Tate Makgoe. Tabling his department’s 2021/22 budget in Qwaqwa, Makgoe announced that improving the state of education in the province remains his top priority. This, despite the province having achieved the highest matric pass rate countrywide at 85.1%. He told Members of the Provincial Legislature (MPLs) and communities gathered at the Mohaladitwe Secondary School that much focus will now be on primary schools and improving their performance.

Makgoe announced that they are working to ensure that every primary school across the province caters for Grade R learners and are well-resourced.

He announced that approximately R169 million is allocated to support ECDs, R910 million for school infrastructure development, R6,5 million to support grade R learners, while some will go towards teacher development, amongst other necessities.

Makgoe further announced that the education system has severely been affected by Covid-19, but he is extremely proud that teachers and learners in the province remained committed to achieving great results.

He confirmed that the province will continue ensuring that it remains in the top position and that all learners and teachers across the province, including in the rural areas, are supported.

OFM News earlier reported two of the biggest Free State departments – Education and Health – have received the bulk of the province’s budget.

OFM News