The Minister of Basic Education, Siviwe Gwarube, has expressed confidence that no teachers will face retrenchment in 2025.
Speaking to Parliament, Minister Gwarube reassured lawmakers that no teaching posts would be eliminated in 2024, despite financial constraints. The Minister led a delegation from the Department of Basic Education to brief the Parliamentary Committee on Education, Sciences, and Creative Industries on the impact of proposed budget cuts on teacher employment.
This briefing took place 100 days after the formation of the Government of National Unity and coincided with the release of five prominent political prisoners—Walter Sisulu, Elias Motsoaledi, Andrew Mlangeni, Raymond Mhlaba, and Ahmed Kathrada.
Gwarube referenced these events as a reminder of the sacrifices that shaped the nation's character, which she said should be reflected in the quality of South Africa’s education system.
The Minister stressed the critical importance of protecting teachers' jobs, which, in turn, safeguards the future of the country's children. "The committee is understandably concerned about the possible loss of teaching positions," Gwarube said.
But at this time, we cannot afford to shed educator jobs. While contradictions exist in how we experience the world, we cannot jeopardize the future of our children or the livelihoods of our educators.
Although Gwarube acknowledged the challenges posed by budget cuts across all government departments, she emphasized that the Department of Basic Education is working closely with the National Treasury to minimize the impact on essential services, including teaching. She reiterated her department’s commitment to preserving education jobs, stating that while teacher numbers will remain steady due to financial constraints, retrenchments will be avoided in 2025.
Chairperson of the Select Committee on Education, Sciences, and Creative Industries, Makhi Feni, welcomed the Minister’s assurances, expressing relief that no teaching posts would be cut next year.
We are encouraged by the Minister’s statements, which give us confidence as we continue with our oversight duties," Feni said. "It is clear that significant efforts are being made to prevent any adverse effects on the education system.
Feni added that the department’s commitment to maintaining teacher employment is vital for ensuring stability within the education sector and protecting the quality of education in South Africa.
