▶️ The post Media Statement on the 2024 Medium-Term Budget Policy Statement (MTBPS) Education spending decreases, despite the education crisis. #MTBPS2024 #SifunaUkufunda appeared first on Equal Education.
For Immediate Release: 31 October 2024
IN SUMMARY – Equal Education states that:
Austerity Budgeting & Inequality: The 2024 budget focuses on austerity, limiting spending to less than revenue, impacting public services and socio-economic rights, particularly in education.
Education Funding Shortfall: The Department of Basic Education reports a R32 billion shortfall this year, projected to grow to R176 billion by 2027/28. This is due to rising student enrollment, new mandates like mandatory Grade R, and historical funding gaps.
Lack of Additional Funding: Despite these needs, no extra funds were provided for the increase in Grade R students under the Basic Education Amendment Laws Act (BELA). Education spending overall was reduced by R1.2 billion for the year.
School Infrastructure Issues: Infrastructure backlogs remain unaddressed, with the budget failing to meet school building targets (only one new school and no new water facilities created). The Education Infrastructure Grant will also see a 3% decrease each year through 2026/27.
Western Cape Education Cuts: R321 million was allocated for new schools and disaster relief in the Western Cape, but funding cuts have led to a reduction of 2,407 teaching positions next year.
Teacher Shortage & Bursary Cuts: Cuts to the Funza Lushaka bursary mean fewer young teachers are joining the workforce. Early retirement incentives for public workers and a tight wage bill make the teacher shortage worse.
Impact on Learning: Larger class sizes and fewer teachers hurt learning quality and students’ motivation to pursue teaching. The situation echoes the impact of Bantu education, with long-term effects on poverty, inequality, and unemployment.
Call for Public Investment: Investing in education and public services is essential for economic growth and equality. Cuts to social grants, lack of funding for public jobs, and outdated poverty data further affect vulnerable South Africans.
Appeal to Parliament: Parliament is urged to review the budget to ensure it aligns with South Africa’s constitutional commitment to socio-economic rights. There’s a call to prioritize human development and inclusive economic growth in budget decisions.
Importance of Public Services: Education, healthcare, social protection, and employment programs are essential for a fairer South Africa and should receive adequate funding.
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To arrange a media interview, contact: Ayanda Sishi-Wigzell, Communications Manager.
Email: ayanda@equaleducation.org.za
Phone: 076 879 3017
