DA challenges provincial education MECs to stand up to Sadtu
The decision last week by the Department of Basic Education to postpone the Annual National Assessments (ANA) for a year is the clearest indication yet that the SA Democratic Teachers Union (Sadtu) is holding education in our country hostage. This cannot be allowed to continue any longer.
The DA in the Western Cape exercises its management prerogative. The Western Cape Education Department runs education in the province. SADTU does not. The DA therefore calls on the other eight provincial education MECs to join the DA in standing up to Sadtu.
Together we must say enough is enough; our children’s future must come first. We urge Education MECs to follow the DA-run Western Cape’s lead by implementing the model of annual systemic testing.
These tests are independently set and administered. The interruption of schooling is limited to the time it takes to write the tests. The tests are marked independently. They are internationally benchmarked to ensure the best possible assessment, and are comparable year on year and grade on grade. They allow truly credible evidence on which to base meaningful literacy and numeracy interventions.
We don’t have to be held hostage by Sadtu any longer. We can continue with these vital assessments – as the Western Cape continues to do – so that we properly assess literacy and numeracy for learners in Grade 3, 6 and 9. Through these assessments we will take the necessary steps to improve the quality of teaching provided in our schools.
Annual testing is critical for as long as our literacy and numeracy levels are so desperately low and is critical to the development of the interventions necessary to ensure that every child receives the high standard of education they deserve.
Sadtu cannot be allowed to continue to destroy the future of our children. Our colleagues in the other eight provincial governments know this too. They must stand up for what is right, and tell Sadtu enough is enough.
Issued by Annette Lovemore, DA Shadow Minister of Basic Education, 14 September 2015
