Education is one of the most important ”deposits” the government could make in building human capital and ensuring a better life for all, Western Cape Premier Ebrahim Rasool said on Wednesday.
”… Because it is through education that we give people the resources and the skills to make something of their lives and, in doing so, to contribute to the lives of those around them.”
Rasool made the comments at an education conference in Cape Town.
He said the chief resources in the education field were teachers and educators, who occupied a privileged position by virtue of them being able to influence and shape the lives of those who would shape the future.
Rasool said with the honour came ”grave responsibilities”, with educators having to be deeply committed to their profession and to the people they taught.
He spoke of the role and obligations between pupil, teacher and parent, suggesting a strenghtening of the triangular relationship in order to fight problems, such as substance abuse at schools.
”It is up to all of us — parents, learners and educators — to help build what we have called the social capital in our society”.
Rasool said schools and colleges were more than just places in which learning takes place, they represented a microcosm of the larger society, where the tensions and challenges of life were played out.
He also drew the attention of delegates to the guiding principle of the civil service: Batho Pele, meaning, people first.
Rasool said that this philosophy should have specific resonance in the education field.
”You, the trustees of children’s education, have a special duty of service. Not only do you serve your learners and their community, you serve the cause of knowledge itself.” – Sapa