Chairperson, hon Minister, hon special delegates present here, hon members, we have received the Bill which was referred to the select committee. It is only proper to indicate that the Bill has gone through all the stages, including the provinces, inputs, public hearings and briefing by the department, and we are satisfied as a committee that the Bill is suitable. With these few words, I would now like to wear the other cap, because I am standing here representing the province.
The debate on the South African Council for Educators Bill provides us once more with an opportunity to engage in a vigorous debate. Since our democratic Government came to power, a lot of progressive legislation has been put in place to enhance the transformation of our country. In pursuance of this transformation it is necessary for us to review our approach from time to time.
The SA Council for Educators was initially established in terms of a collective agreement reached in the Education Labour Relations Council. The resolution spelt out the objectives, composition, powers and functions of the council. It was to replace the Teachers Federal Council, a creation of the apartheid government accommodating only white educators. The SA Council for Education was subsequently established in terms of the Educators' Employment Act in October 1998. This was informed by an understanding amongst stakeholders that a regulatory body like SACE has to be inclusive of the stakeholders and does not fall within the domain of collective bargaining. It was also understood that this was a temporary measure, as SACE required its own Act.
The South African Council for Educators Bill provides for some effective measures of control by educators and other stakeholders, accepting that the state must continue to ensure the provision of an efficient system of education. The scope of SACE must not be limited to educators employed in terms of the legislation of 1998, but must include educators at independent schools, educators employed by governing bodies, as well as adult basic education and training and higher education practitioners.
The Bill does not deviate from the fundamental principle of the SA Council for Education, which is founded on the promotion and development of the teaching profession, the establishment of a registrar of educators, and the establishment and maintenance of a code of professional ethics for educators. SACE is not a disciplinary arm of Government, but should enhance greater discipline amongst educators, not with the intention to witch-hunt educators but rather to intervene in a professionally sound manner.
The composition of the council as proposed is inclusive of all stakeholders, that is educators, representatives of education departments, school governing bodies or SGBs, higher education institutions, further education and training, and private and independent schools.
For greater accountability, the Minister must approve the statement of income and expenditure of the council.
In conclusion, the SA Council for Educators should remain committed to high standards in education to ensure that our educators are productive in a pluralistic and interrelated global world. It is the responsibility of every citizen to ensure that the image and dignity of the teaching profession is ameliorated. [Applause.]