The Federation of Governing Bodies of South African Schools (Fedsas) obtained the court order last week, in order to prevent the Gauteng Education MEC and the provincial education department from active interference in schools’ language and admissions policies.
This includes the proposed conversion of mostly Afrikaans single-medium schools to parallel-medium schools.
“The court order is not only against the MEC – it is against the entire Gauteng Education Department; in other words, any official could be found guilty of contempt of court should the court order be ignored,” said Paul Colditz, CEO of Fedsas.
Fedsas has already asked its legal team to write a letter to the state attorney, requesting that the MEC or head of department confirms that these instructions were communicated to all departmental officials.
“Fedsas is especially worried that schools are now targeted selectively, despite the MEC expressly stating that he is only investigating available capacity in all schools in Gauteng.
“Some schools are also forced to hand over the original application forms for 2016 admissions. Education officials claim it is for the purpose of updating the so-called e-platform data base,” Colditz added.
“If this is the only reason, Fedsas does not object to copies being provided to the department.
”However, schools are entitled to these forms, since the A and B waiting lists are compiled with this information, as determined by the court.”
Fedsas wants to reiterate that this case is not based on language or race.
“Fedsas is an organisation that focuses on equipping school governing bodies, as provided for by the South African Schools Act,” Colditz said.
“In this specific instance, mostly Afrikaans schools appear to be targeted and Fedsas is, therefore, acting on behalf of these members.
“However, the organisation has a proud record of equipping the entire spectrum of diversity in South Africa.”
Colditz said Fedsas will continue to protect the interests of its members in order to ensure quality education for all learners in public schools. – @IschkeBoksburg
