WC & GP PEDs Annual Performance Plans, implementation of AGSA recommendations & anti-bullying strategies

The Portfolio Committee on Basic Education met to receive briefings from the Western Cape Education Department (WCED) and the Gauteng Department of Education (GDE) on their 2025–2030 Strategic Plans and 2025/26 Annual Performance Plans. The meeting was preceded by procedural tensions concerning the absence of the Minister and Director-General in an earlier engagement, with Members stressing the importance of structured oversight and accountability. The WCED presentation focused on infrastructure expansion, admissions management, school safety, audit outcomes and transformation measures. While the Department reported high placement rates and ongoing construction of new schools and classrooms, Members raised serious concerns about admissions fairness, allegations of systemic racism, school culture, placement distances, and the impact of late applications. The MEC defended the province against sweeping allegations, raised a point of order regarding unsubstantiated claims, and indicated that the province is appealing a court judgment. The Chairperson emphasised that oversight must be evidence-based and grounded in the majority court ruling, while also calling for deeper interrogation of admissions criteria and equitable access. The GDE presentation, delivered by the HOD, outlined enrolment growth pressures, infrastructure delivery, budget constraints, scholar transport challenges, and the functioning of the online admissions system. Although the Department reported high placement rates and ongoing school construction, Members questioned infrastructure delays, unplaced learners, contract management, security, maintenance, transport disruptions, and the adequacy of funding. Concerns were also raised about governance risks, monitoring systems, and the impact of budget cuts on core programmes. The GDE MEC acknowledged funding pressures and operational challenges but committed to improved communication, strengthened oversight of service providers, and written follow-up responses where required. The Chairperson concluded by requesting outstanding answers in writing and adjourned the meeting.