President Cyril Ramaphosa has highlighted the urgent need for global unity in ensuring equal access to education for all, particularly amidst ongoing instability .
The President was speaking at the Education International 10th Africa Regional Conference held at the Sandton Convention Centre in Johannesburg on Tuesday .
Education International Africa Region is holding its 10th Regional Conference in Johannesburg .
About 400 delegates, observers, and guests from across and beyond the region are attending the conference .
President Ramaphosa lauded the conference organisers for their commitment to advancing education, particularly in times of crisis, which is crucial for the future of the African continent and the world .
The President told delegates that as nations navigated the turbulent waters brought by the COVID-19 pandemic, the world was confronted with political upheavals and conflicts .
“These crises further strained our social fabric, affecting the livelihoods of countless individuals and denying many children their fundamental right to education .
In these times of instability, it is even more critical for nations to stand united in pursuit of equal access to education for all .
“Education is the cornerstone upon which societies build their future .
Through education, we cultivate respect for human rights, the rule of law and the principles of democracy,” the President said .
President Ramaphosa said the work of the UN High-Level Panel on the Teaching Profession, which demonstrates the adaptation of education systems to a rapidly changing world, is one of the most important tasks of the moment .
The panel draws expertise from diverse stakeholders, including Ministers of Education, labour representatives, teacher unions and civil society organisations, and includes South Africa’s own Minister of Basic Education, Angie Motshekga .
It’s main objectives underscore the importance of educators’ voices in finding solutions to educational challenges .
“Educators play a fundamental and irreplaceable role in shaping our societies, and their insights are invaluable in our quest for sustainable solutions .
Curriculum reform that responds to the changing world of work is another vital task .
“In South Africa, we are on the brink of a significant educational reform with the implementation of the Coding and Robotics curriculum from Grade R to Grade 9 .
“This initiative is part of our broader strategy to integrate STEAM [science, technology, engineering, arts and maths] subjects into our education system .
By doing so, we aim to equip our learners with the digital skills necessary to thrive in a fast-paced world,” President Ramaphosa said .
Decolonising education
The President said that the decolonisation of education has become increasingly important .
He added that the discussions at this conference, focusing on tackling racism, decolonising education and promoting democracy, human rights and trade union rights, could not be more timely .
“The project of decolonising education in Africa is not just a matter of academic interest .
It is a pressing need .
We must challenge colonial theories and practices to build resilient education systems that are centred on African perspectives and experiences .
“This requires a shift away from a Eurocentric worldview to embrace a more diverse and inclusive perspective .
“We must acknowledge and value the knowledge systems of all peoples and integrate them into our curricula and knowledge selection processes,” the President said .
He said the responsibility to nurture and defend the right to education extends to all parts of society .
The President called on labour movements, civil society organisations and non-governmental organisations operating within the educational sphere to collaborate to protect this critical space .
Through such partnerships, he said, the world can prepare learners to be active, informed citizens in democratic societies .
“The role of organisations, such as Education International, are vital .
As advocates for quality education, your mission is to ensure inclusive and equitable learning opportunities for all .
“We know that quality education is not just a matter of access .
What is also needed are safe, conducive environments where the rights of all learners are respected and upheld .
“By improving access to education, we can alleviate poverty and empower marginalised communities, unlocking their potential and contributing to the development of nations,” he said .