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The Provincial Department of Education, the 2024 School Governing Body (SGB) elections season has kicked off in the North West Province, echoing a crucial phase in the educational landscape. The elections have been scheduled to start on the 1st of March 2024, marked the beginning of a month-long process aimed at electing new leadership for schools across the province. The launch, presided over by department’s MEC Ntsetsao Viola Motsumi, shed light on key issues and expectations surrounding the SGB elections.

MEC Motsumi, in her remarks, underscored the Department of Education’s anticipation of full support from all School Governing Bodies. “Our expectation as the Department of Education is to get 100% support from the school governing body,” she emphasized. The MEC raised concerns about rising incidents of gangsterism in schools such as Setumo Secondary, Lapologang Secondary, and Golf View Secondary. These incidents, characterized by learners forcibly gaining entrance to schools and endangering others, necessitate immediate action and collaboration from SGBs.

Motsumi drew parallels with successful strategies implemented by SGBs in provinces like Free State and KwaZulu-Natal, where a positive relationship with provincial education authorities has contributed to academic excellence. “The SGBs are in charge of their schools. Parents in those provinces do not compromise on issues of culture, and that contributes to the good behavior of learners,” she noted.

Acknowledging the commendable efforts of certain SGBs in the province, Motsumi highlighted their role in propelling the North West to the fourth-best performing matric class of 2023. “Let us elect credible leaders of tomorrow as part of our SGBs,” she urged, emphasizing the importance of selecting individuals capable of providing direction and fostering conducive learning environments.

However, Motsumi also addressed the challenges facing many SGBs, particularly regarding internal conflicts over school finances. “Most of the Province’s SGBs are dysfunctional because of internal fighting amongst themselves. At the core of these fights are matters related to the school finances,” she lamented.

In a pledge of collaboration and support, MEC Motsumi committed to working closely with the incoming SGBs, offering regular meetings and increased interaction to enhance the quality of education for all learners in the province.

The launch of the 2024 SGB elections in the North West Province marks a critical juncture in the educational journey, signaling a call to action for all stakeholders to ensure the selection of capable leaders who will steer schools towards excellence and inclusivity.

-The VIP Team

-NW Education