South Africa’s Education System Facing Funding Crisis: Minister Sounds Alarm
Basic Education Minister Siviwe Gwarube delivered a stark warning at a media briefing in Pretoria, highlighting the impending national crisis in the country’s education sector. Provincial education departments are projected to require an additional R79 billion to R118 billion by 2027 to sustain current programs and teacher salaries.
Gwarube emphasized the financial strain caused by above-inflation salary increases for public servants, rendering the public wage bill unsustainable. She urged proactive measures to avert a funding shortfall that could result in reduced teacher posts and compromised educational outcomes.
The minister’s call for urgent action comes as provinces face budget constraints, impacting essential services like textbooks and administrative support. Gwarube stressed the need for collaborative efforts with treasury to secure additional funds and prioritize education as a national imperative for a prosperous future.