Speaking at the Pholoho Special Needs School in Bloemfontein on Thursday (17/10) during her Listen and Learn tour, Siviwe Gwarube said a well-funded education system is crucial in addressing the country’s sky-high unemployment rate.

While budgetary constraints are a reality, investing in education is essential for building a strong economy. “We may not always get what we want because the minister of Finance – who probably has the picture of my face in his office by security to say don’t let this woman in – but as he often says to me: You’re not the only one I’m supposed to look after.

“And I often say: Yes, I’m not the only one, but certainly we are the sector that is the most important. If we want to grow the economy and tackle youth unemployment, we need to ensure our education system is producing capable people who can participate meaningfully in the economy.”

She pointed to the alarming statistic that seven out of ten young South Africans are unemployed, arguing the education system serves as the “conveyor belt” that equips them to enter the workforce. “If the government’s priority is to grow the economy and create jobs, then it’s vital our schools are preparing learners to live productive, dignified lives and contribute to the economy.”

Siviwe Gwarube interacting with learners of the Pholoho Special School in Bloemfontein. Photo: Kekeletso Mosebetsi

Free State Education MEC Julia Maboya highlighted the need for education to be responsive to the economy’s needs, focusing on skills programmes that ensure learners are job-ready upon completing their studies or can create their employment opportunities.

“The presentation by the director-general gave us a clear picture of the priorities, both from the national government and within the education sector. As the Free State, our vision is to deliver a high-quality, inclusive education system that aligns with the demands of the economy,” said Maboya.

Basic Education Minister, Siviwe Gwarube, at the Pholoho Special School in Bloemfontein. Photo: Kekeletso Mosebetsi 

Maboya said budget cuts had hampered the completion of planned programmes. However, she expressed confidence Gwarube’s interactions with stakeholders and school visits would provide her with the insights needed to advocate effectively for the necessary resources.

OFM News/Kekeletso Mosebetsi dg