The role of the SGB is crucial as it gives parents authority in how their children’s schools are run. The SGB comprises a statutory body of parents, educators, non-teaching staff, and learners who work towards ensuring the well-being and effectiveness of their schools.
“Engage with the process, educate yourselves and others, and most importantly, exercise your right to vote. Your involvement is not just a contribution but a testament to your commitment to the future of our nation’s children. My call to action today is simple yet powerful: get involved. Whether you avail yourself as a candidate for election or cast your vote, your contribution holds immense significance. It will not only impact the lives of our children but also shape the future of our nation,” the Minister of Education, Angie Motshekga, said during the announcement of the election date.
The election of a new SGB takes place every three years.
Motshekga said that research shows that schools with active SGBs perform better in academic achievements, learner well-being, and community engagement. Schools with high SGB participation report an average 20% higher pass rate than those with lower engagement.
SGBs play an important role in the administration of schools overseeing the day-to-day management and implementing policies regarding language and admissions. Parents can contribute their skills by becoming involved in this way.
According to Adriaan du Plessis, current chairman of Laerskool Nylstroom’s SGB, communication between the school and parents is crucial.
“The SGB must be open, transparent and accountable with all their decisions so that the school is served best. Parents must be part of these decisions by getting involved with the SGB or by giving their support to the elected SGB.” He said the role of the SGB is to ensure that the school fulfills the needs of the children. “Active parents contribute diverse perspectives, which enhances the transparency of decisions,” he said.
Wiets Botes, former SGB chairman at Hoërskool Nylstroom, reiterated the importance of parents being involved.
“Parents bring different skills to the governing body. Parents with business acumen must be elected, as schools are much like large businesses that should be run responsibly to ensure their financial health. It should not be politicized and the school and each decision must be in favor of the school and its learners and not an individual. Even if parents do not serve on the SGB, they must be encouraged to contribute by paying their school fees. It is your children who will reap the benefits of a financially strong school.”
As the Basic Education Laws Amendment (Bela) Bill gets closer to being implemented, fears are that it will affect the reach of SGBs regarding schools’ language and admission policies. The bill has received fierce legal and political resistance from many corners. The SGBs elected in March will have to deal with the issues that go with this bill.
