Deputy Speaker, the ANC welcomes the publishing of the new draft Minimum Norms and Standards for School Infrastructure by the Basic Education Ministry. All education stakeholders are expected to study the draft regulations and provide comments to the department by 11 October 2013.
As pointed out by the Minister, the objectives of the regulations were to guide the provision of an enabling physical teaching and learning environment that is sustainable and equable for all pupils in South Africa. Certain norms and standards, namely the availability of classrooms, electricity, water and sanitation and perimeter security are to be prioritised. These norms and standards are crucial for a conducive school environment.
Members of the executive councils of provincial education departments will also be required to annually provide the Minister with detailed plans on the manner in which the norms and standards are to be implemented and to report to the Ministry annually on the implementation of their plans. The ANC supports this initiative by the Minister of Basic Education. Thank you. [Applause.]