South Africa’s Basic Education Minister Siviwe Gwarube is facing calls for her dismissal after failing to attend the signing of a crucial education bill.

The South African Democratic Teachers’ Union (Sadtu) has demanded the minister’s resignation, highlighting tensions within the country’s education sector.

President Cyril Ramaphosa signed the Basic Education Laws Amendment (Bela) Bill into law on Friday. Minister Gwarube’s absence at the ceremony has been criticised by Sadtu, with the union claiming her absence suggests “two parallel structures of government”.

Sadtu General Secretary Mugwena Maluleke described the minister’s absence as “unacceptable,” urging President Ramaphosa to take action. The minister’s spokesperson says she remains committed to working with all stakeholders.

The new legislation aims to address inequalities in South Africa’s education system, including changes to school admissions, language policies, and the powers of school governing bodies.

However, experts warn that implementing the new laws may face challenges. Professor Suriamurthee Maistry from the University of KwaZulu-Natal noted that contestation is expected, particularly regarding the reduction of school governing bodies’ powers.

Professor Vimolan Mudaly cautioned against over-excitement, citing existing budgetary constraints and teacher shortages as potential obstacles to the bill’s implementation.

As South Africa grapples with these educational reforms, the controversy surrounding Minister Gwarube’s absence highlights the complex challenges facing the country’s education system.