Basic Education Minister Siviwe Gwarube announced the appointment of new members of the National Education and Training Council (NETC), which will be led by Penelope Vinjevold, as the chairperson.

She said the Council, which begins its work on Wednesday, will serve as a key advisory body on school education policy matters.

The NETC is aimed at strengthening South Africa’s education policy architecture and Gwarube said this aligned with the priorities of the 2025 State of the Nation Address, such as the school resourcing model, quality foundational learning, promotion and progression requirements, reducing the administrative burden on teachers, amongst others.

The NETC was established in 2009 under the National Education Policy Act.

The members include Khathutshelo Onica Dederen; Dr Xolani Khohliso; Zanele Mabaso; Madimetja Dina Mamashela; Professor Judith McKenzie; Professor Paulus Jacobus Mentz; Lebogang Stephen Montjane; Mmatsetsweu Ruby Motaung; Professor Nicolette Roberts; Maite Getrude Rammala; Marie-Louise Samuels; Dr Selvia Kista (Mona) Singh; Dr Glodean Qondile Tintswalo Thani and Dr Gabrielle Wills.

Gwarube said the new members of the Council reflected a “deliberate effort” to bring together a wide “spectrum of expertise” in education policy, curriculum development and delivery, pedagogy and education management and governance.

She pointed out that this Council had the capacity to ensure that every child had a genuine chance at success.

“It is important to emphasise that, in line with its founding regulations, the NETC is deliberately diverse but not constituency-based. Members contribute as individuals on the strength of their expertise and professional experience,” she said.