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CAPE TOWN – President Cyril Ramaphosa has declared that the Basic Education Laws Amendment (BELA) Act will be implemented, regardless of public resistance, as part of efforts to reform South Africa’s education system.
Addressing the African National Congress (ANC) presidential gala dinner on Friday, held during the party’s 113th birthday celebrations, Ramaphosa said the act would ensure improvements in education and require collaboration from all sectors.
“This law, the BELA Act, is going to be implemented whether people like it or not. It is going to happen,” he said.
The BELA Act, which has faced fierce opposition from the Democratic Alliance (DA), proposes changes to language policies and school governance structures. The Government of National Unity (GNU) was deeply divided on the issue throughout 2024, but the ANC has pressed ahead with its plans.
Ramaphosa also reiterated the government’s commitment to rolling out the National Health Insurance (NHI) Act, which aims to provide universal access to healthcare. “The NHI will be implemented to ensure quality healthcare that is free at the point of service,” he said.
The ANC leader acknowledged the party’s challenges, referencing what he described as its “painful electoral setback” in 2024. He indicated that Saturday’s January 8 statement would serve as a moment for the ANC to reflect on these difficulties.
