The Eastern Cape Department of Education (ECDoE) Learner Development and Social Support Services (LD&SSS) Directorate recently held a strategic planning session to plan on how to improve the quality of education in the Province in East London.

The two-day session aimed at aligning educational strategies with constitutional mandate and the National Development Plan vision 2030. According to LD&SSS Acting Chief Director Zukiswa Njotini, the workshop was an active engagement platform to review directorates progress, identify areas for improvement as well as a platform to also develop strategies to address the sections challenges. "Today we are gathered here as a collective to reflect on our past achievements both at Head Office and District level to identify areas for improvement and strategically plan for the future. Our success as this Chief Directorate relies heavily on teamwork, collaboration, and a shared commitment to providing quality education and support services to our learners”, said Njotini.

Hama Zhou who is a facilitator from the Astuta group did a strategic review of the Chief Directorate policies, plans, programmes and possible turnaround plan said that the session was to conscience colleagues on understanding the context in which strategic planning occurs. “An environment like this brings opportunities and minimises constraints that affect a successful implementation of the strategic plan” said Zhou.

Amathole West Chief Education Specialist, Yandisa Plata said that it was essential that the department prfioritizes the needs of the most vulnerable learners. “We all need to ensure that our policies, plans, and programmes are tailored to support those who require extra care and attention, Head Office and District Office need to work together to create a comprehensive and inclusive strategy addressing social, emotional, and academic needs in the Province ” added Plata.

Siyamanga Mhletywa, an Inclusive Education Supporting Staff Intern, appreciated the session saying that she was impressed by the level of engagement and participation from all stakeholders during the session. “As an intern, I was able to gain valuable insights on strategic planning processes and how it impacts the work of LD&SSS.” Mhletywa continued by saying that the experience has not only broadened her understanding of the education sector but also instilled in her a sense of purpose and responsibility to contribute to the development of learners.