Johannesburg - School principals, who head schools in Ivory Park, have been commended for their hard work and coherent leadership.
On Monday, Basic Education Minister Angie Motshekga addressed a crowd of education stakeholders gathered at Ivory Park Community Hall for an Imbizo.
“You have some of the best principals in the country,” she said to a cheerful audience, which comprised educators, school principals, community leaders and political organisations.
The Minister was impressed that although the schools in Ivory Park were overcrowded, they were managed well.
“A high school, according to norms and standards, is not supposed to have more than 1 200 learners -- that is the maximum, but principals at Ivory Park head up to 2000 learners, which is two high schools in one…” she said.
The Minister said this was also a case in primary schools in the area, where a school is supposed to accommodate just above 800 learners but in Ivory Park schools take more than 1 000 learners.
“These are huge numbers of learners to manage, but our principals carry the load with dignity,” said the Minister.
Head of Department at Gauteng Education Department, Edward Mosuwe, has committed to ensure that quality education is provided for in all public schools.
He said the department will ensure township education becomes a priority.
“More attention should be given to special schools. 18 special schools will be built in Gauteng this financial year,” he said.
Mosuwe called on parents who wish to enrol their children in independent schools to confirm if those schools are accredited by the department. - SAnews.gov.za
