To ensure a strong education system, the Eastern Cape Department of Education has taken proactive steps to improve the quality of teaching and learning. The department aims to achieve an 85% pass rate in 2024 and has been assessing and enhancing the performance of schools across the province. By engaging with school principals and stakeholders, the department is identifying strengths and weaknesses, and developing strategies for future success.

Recently, under the leadership of MEC Fundile Gade, the department held engagement sessions with principals from various education districts, including Buffalo City Metro, Amathole East and West, Joe Gqabi, and Chris Hani East. These sessions, held in East London and Cofimvaba, provided a platform for candid discussions on the performance of the National Curriculum Statement (NCS) results of 2023.

Recognising the importance of continuous improvement, the department emphasises the need for yearly evaluations to identify blind spots and enhance sector performance. This is done by assessing the effectiveness of teaching methodologies, curriculum delivery, and learner outcomes.

MEC Gade has emphasised the crucial role of the public service in driving the education sector towards the National Development Plan (NDP) ambition. "With a vision set for 2030, it is important to evaluate the current structure and its capacity to achieve long-term objectives. Basic education is the cornerstone of societal development, and discussions that extend beyond the sector are essential to ensure alignment with the broader vision for the nation," said MEC Gade.

By involving all stakeholders, the department is setting an example of effective governance, sustainable development, and collective efforts towards excellence and progress.