Textbook procurement for the Foundation Phase (Grade 1-3); with Ministry

Video The Portfolio Committee on Basic Education met to consider urgent concerns raised regarding the Department of Basic Education’s (DBE) development, implementation, and release of the Foundation Phase (Grades 1–3) National Catalogue for learning and teaching support materials, amid allegations of governance weaknesses, procurement irregularities, and risks to transparency and accountability. Members welcomed the Department’s delegation, including the Minister, Deputy Minister, Director-General (DG), and senior officials, and expressed concern about the late submission of documentation and the need for stronger preparedness. The central focus of the meeting was the Foundation Phase National Catalogue, which had generated significant public and parliamentary concern. Members raised extensive questions about whether the catalogue process effectively functioned as a procurement mechanism, the legality of National Treasury deviations, and the adequacy of governance safeguards. Concerns were also raised about the reduction of approved textbook titles from eight to three, potential market concentration among publishers, the role and independence of subject advisors, and the transparency of the “blind screening” evaluation process. Members further questioned the involvement and due diligence of entities such as Lighthouse, beneficial ownership structures, and the adequacy of internal controls, audit processes, and conflict-of-interest safeguards. The Minister of Basic Education stressed her constitutional oversight role, clarifying that she did not participate in procurement but was responsible for ensuring accountability and lawful processes. She stated that concerns had been escalated to National Treasury and internal audit structures, and that preliminary findings warranted further scrutiny. She denied allegations of interference or external relationships with implicated entities and emphasised that her actions were aimed at safeguarding compliance and protecting provincial Departments from potential irregular expenditure. After extensive deliberation, Members raised continued concerns about transparency, governance integrity, procurement classification, transformation in the publishing sector, and the sufficiency of oversight mechanisms. Several Members called for full disclosure of documentation, independent forensic investigations, suspension of implementation pending review outcomes, and clarification of financial implications and market impacts. The Chairperson concluded that the Committee lacked sufficient clarity on key aspects of the process and supported further independent investigation. The Committee resolved to prepare a draft referral to the Office of the Public Protector and to consider a separate referral to the Public Service Commission (PSC) regarding recruitment-related concerns. It was further agreed that the Committee would await outstanding reports from National Treasury and the Internal Audit Unit before taking further decisions. The meeting concluded with the Chairperson emphasising the need for improved departmental coordination, clearer communication, and protection of public confidence in the education system.