The Noordwyk Primary School’s governing body elections finally took place on March 11 after a postponement.
The postponement on March 5 was due to parents in attendance not forming the 280 quorum needed to hold the School Governing Body (SGB) elections. Only 242 were present leaving a shortfall of 38.
Donald Mathebula, Giyani Baloyi, Arthur Van Tee Bvuma, outgoing chairperson Amukelani Albert Ngobeni, Zibusiso Mpofu and Lemohang Ramashala were elected to the SGB. Although those elected have no designated positions yet, they will be assigned dedicated portfolios in due course.
The executive will have a three-year term which will end in the 2027 academic year.
Speaking after the elections, the school principal Lynelle Eloff said, “SGB elections are held every three years and parents are chosen by parents to govern the school. Schools need to have an active governing body as they decide over the school’s finances, policies, hiring of new staff, extra and co-curricular activities and ensure that all learners have enough textbooks. They work hand-in-hand with the school principal in creating a functional school.”
A parent of a child in Grade 7, Mdu Masango, believes the governing body empowers them as parents and ensures that they are also part of the decision-making.
“It makes us feel like we are part of the journey and the holistic schooling programme as well. Of course, there should be a close relationship between parents and the SGB. I believe they are there to represent us as parents and have our mandate. The SGB leadership elected here today will be our representative and ambassadors as parents,” said Masongo.
He said the governing body must serve as catalysts between parents, learners and teachers without taking sides in its decision-making and ensure that every decision benefits learners and the school.
Public schools are required to conclude the SGB elections by March 30 this year as gazetted by Basic Education Minister Angie Motshekga.
Related articles: NASGB urges parents to get involve in their children’s education and learning process
New young learners shed a tear as they start the 2023 academic year at Noordwyk Primary School
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