The acknowledgement of the role of school governing bodies in the success of schools is one of the positive aspects of FEDSAS’s first official meeting with the new Minister of Basic Education, Siviwe Gwarube. The meeting formed part of Gwarube’s introduction to role-players in the education sector.

“FEDSAS did not show up at the meeting with a wish list. We introduced FEDSAS and our services to the Minister as part of our continued commitment of service to the sector,” says Dr Jaco Deacon, CEO of the Federation of Governing Bodies of South African Schools. The FEDSAS delegation included Deacon, the organisation’s Deputy CEOs, Dr Juané van der Merwe and Mr Riaan van der Bergh, as well as Mr George Moroasui, FEDSAS’s National Development Manager.

Deacon says in addition to the Minister and her Deputy, Dr Reginah Mhaule, senior officials of the National Department of Basic Education were also present. So were members of SGB organisations that form part of the National Consultative Forum. “Important decision-makers and role-players were together in one room, which is an excellent starting point for future cooperation.”
FEDSAS focuses on equipping SGBs, and Deacon says it was good to hear that the Minister and her Deputy also values the position of SGBs in the education chain. They were also under no illusion as to the effort it would take to equip all SGBs properly. “Minister Gwarube expressed her shock at the number of dysfunctional SGBs. Her target for functional SGBs is 100%, and she made it clear that this is only possible with the support of SGB organisations like FEDSAS.”

Deacon says this underscores the importance of the work that FEDSAS is doing. “For decades we have been committed to this goal. Close cooperation with SGBs will allow the Minister and her Department to understand what is happening at grassroots level. With our established network and nearly 2000 members country-wide we are perfectly positioned to assist.”

Deacon says FEDSAS experienced the first meeting as positive and is looking forward to a solid working relationship. “It is important to allow the Minister to find her feet. At our next meeting we will handle the operational matters. In the meantime, the regular contact and meetings with senior officials will continue.”

Important matters for discussion include suggestions for amendments to the tables for exemption from school fees, non-payment of school allocations, vacant posts and several policies yet to be finalised. “FEDSAS’s work continues. As always, we value and nurture our strategic relationships to the advantage of our members but also to promote quality education in our country.”

PHOTO : The FEDSAS delegation to the meeting with the Minister of Basic Education were, from left to right, Dr Jaco Deacon (CEO), Mr George Moroasui (National Development Manager), Dr Juané van der Merwe and Mr Riaan van der Bergh (both Deputy CEOs).  Education role-players met with the Minister of Basic Education, Siviwe Gwarube (front, second from right) and her Deputy, Dr Reginah Mhaule (front, second from left).