Education
Whether it has been brought to his attention that certain political party leaders
from ward 27 in the Drakenstein Municipality wore party regalia at the Ligstraal
School while donating sport equipment; if so, what (a) are the relevant details
and (b) measures is his Department taking to prevent political activities at
schools?
My department has informed me of the following:
(a) The Western Cape Education Department (WCED) was notified of partypolitical
activity in a school during school hours. The district investigated and
the allegations were verified.
The principal has issued a formal, and sincere, apology, indicating that they
were unaware of the legislation that prohibits political activities during school
time on school grounds. The Facebook posts of the event have also been
deleted.
Consequence management processes have been initiated.
(b) Section 33A of the South African Schools Act of 1996, prohibits political activities
on school grounds during school time. The wearing of any political regalia or
attire containing partisan political messages is clearly prohibited. Similar
provisions are contained in section 46(B) of the Western Cape Provincial School
Education Act of 1997.
A circular (0005/2024) was issued in 2024 outlining the legislation. It also includes
the conditions in which Governing bodies may decide to allow political
activities to be conducted on the school premises outside of school time.
