South Africa President calls for increased investment in teachers

President Cyril Ramaphosa has called for increased investment in South Africa’s teaching profession to drive better educational outcomes and prepare the youth for a changing economy. Speaking at the 26th National Teaching Awards, the President emphasized that improving classrooms requires more than curriculum reform; it necessitates supporting educators through professional development, improved working conditions, and better resources.

Ramaphosa highlighted the need to attract talented young people to the profession, support new teachers, and enable experienced educators to continue skill development. He also addressed systemic challenges, including school overcrowding, the need for safe infrastructure, reducing administrative burdens, and combating violence and intimidation in schools.

The push for teacher support follows critical international assessments, such as the 2021 Progress in International Reading Literacy Study, which showed significant weaknesses in foundational literacy and numeracy among South African learners. Additionally, the President noted that teachers must be equipped to navigate technological shifts, including the integration of artificial intelligence in the classroom.