Press Statement dated 25 October 2018
The Public Servants Association (PSA) that represents thousands of public-sector educators, is concerned about proposals by the South African Council for Educators (SACE) to have teachers re-register with the Council every three years.
Currently, teachers register with SACE on a once-off basis. SACE intends to in 202o introduce a system whereby educators must re-register every three years. This will include a requirement that they earn at least 150 continuing professional teacher development points during such a cycle. The proposal by SACE is, amongst others, intended to enhance its database and ensure that teachers charged with misconduct do not remain on the SACE register.
“Although there is understanding for SACE’s duty to enhance the status of the teaching profession through appropriate registration and the management of professional development, any related measures should be closely consulted with stakeholders. SACE is already struggling to deal with new registrations. The re-registration of teachers will be an enormous additional administrative undertaking. In addition, educators will carry the financial burden of having to pay re-registration fees,” said PSA General Manager Ivan Fredericks.
The PSA is also concerned about the impact that the re-registration process could have on educators’ main task of teaching. “SACE already has processes in place to deregister teachers should there be a need. The improvement of this process rather than having teachers re-register should be explored,” said Mr Fredericks.
Issued by Ivan Fredericks, General Manager, Public Servants Association (PSA)