The Deputy Director-General (DDG) for Curriculum Management recently convened a Branch Review Session, bringing together Chief Directorates to reflect on the current state of teaching and learning in Eastern Cape schools in East London, Buffalo City Education District.

The branch which comprises four Chief Directorates namely; Curriculum Management, Assessment and Examinations, Teacher Development and Learning Institutions, and Learner Development and Social Support Services attended the Review Session which aimed at:

* ⁠Reflecting and assessing the current teaching and learning landscape in Eastern Cape schools.

* ⁠Envisioning the future by outlining a compelling vision for the education system, highlighting desired outcomes and aspirations.

* Introducing a proposed model for reviewing and strengthening the curriculum, with a focus on improving learning outcomes.

* Ensuring alignment with the priorities of the Basic Education sector, driving a cohesive and effective approach to education.

Furthermore, during the Review Session the branch demonstrated a commitment to collaborative reflection, strategic planning, and continuous improvement in the education system of the Province.

DDG Curriculum, Ray Tywakadi mentioned that the agenda was twofold. Firstly, to assess all subject performance, identify gaps, and explore innovative solutions. Secondly, it will divide attendees into commissions that will focus on specific departmental programs, outlining key milestones and strategies for success. “The year 2025 promises to be challenging, with several critical initiatives on the horizon. One key focus area is the implementation of mother tongue-based bilingual education, extending the use of mother tongue from Grade 4 to Grade 7” said Tywakadi.

“We are developing programs and mechanisms to support this shift. Another significant challenge is the functional shift of early childhood development from the Department of Social Development to Education. While the legal framework is in place, we must now address the institutional, structural, and organizational challenges that come with this transition” added Tywakadi.

He went on to explain that additional key initiatives for 2025 include the implementation of the reading strategy, mathematics and science strategy, and the introduction of vocational and educational curriculum streams.

Curriculum Chief Director, Chulekazi Xundu-Bula emphasized the importance of collaboration in implementing the three-stream model. “This new curriculum requires a cohesive approach, integrating ⁠Inclusive Education; Ensuring equal access to quality education for all learners,aligning the new curriculum with the three-stream model and also Teacher Development which means providing training and support for teachers to effectively implement the new curriculum” said Bula.

She encouraged officials to work together to ensure a successful rollout of the three-stream model which will ultimately benefit learners and the education system as a whole.

Phumelele Sinuka, Manager in the office of the Chief Director: Teacher Development & Learning Institutions said that the session was conducted in a ‘professional and empowering’ manner where true leadership was showcased. “Convergence of all Chief Directorates under one roof and constitution of the commissions with different Directorates allowed for diverse and critical ideas to be shared. Our Chief Directorate will now implement programmes that are premised on the directives of the Branch Head in full consideration of the plans of other Chief Directorates. The session was successful and has met our expectations”, concluded Sinuka.