Better pay ‘critical’ for teachers

Deputy President Paul Mashatile says South Africa urgently needs to improve teachers’ pay and working conditions.

Speaking at an international education forum, Mashatile said governments must invest in digital technology for educators and empower them for the future workforce. But he emphasised that “we must also ensure that our educators can effectively utilise new technologies”.

With many teachers teaching subjects they weren’t trained for, Mashatile said upskilling educators is vital.

“In South Africa, we have the Funza Lushaka Bursary Scheme, which is meant to attract young teachers into the teaching profession based on the needs identified,” he added.

But Mashatile stressed that competitive salaries are key to recognizing teachers’ achievements and attracting talent.

“It is critical that we never lose sight of the fact that we are currently living in a digital age, and we must also ensure that our educators can remain relevant and efficient,” he said.

Mashatile’s comments highlight the pressing need to transform teaching into an appealing, modern career with the pay and resources to nurture South Africa’s future generations.