The Sadtu teachers’ union has suggested that it wants to focus on teaching about African history in the History course in local schools. This union still insists that it wants this course to be compulsory for all students.
Sadtu says just this, the Department of Basic Education, has issued a public comment on the principles affecting this history lesson in schools. The Department has done this to strengthen the teaching of this subject, from Grade 4 to Grade 12.
The Secretary General of Sadtu, Dr Mugwena Maluleke, said they have been saying that they want to focus on teaching about the history that affects the continent of Africa, not foreign countries.
“We want to focus on the teaching of things that affect Africa, rather than focusing more on things that affect European countries. We hope that these policies that have been issued to the public, and that we will also comment on History, will specify that this course should be made compulsory.”
He said if the course is compulsory, it will make the students know where they come from and what is happening in their country.
Mr. Terence Khala, acting spokesperson for the Department, said that they have been looking for ways to review the teaching of this subject in schools for some time. He said a team was also appointed to oversee the review of this course in the Department.
“This team looked at the matter of revising the teaching plan for this course, to check that the textbooks for this course are in line with the suggested teaching of this course as well as the training programs for the teachers who teach this course. The report of the team was presented to Parliament, to the Minister of Education committee, as well as to Umalusi.”
He said that they have heard about the comments that affect the teaching of history in this country, as there are those who are worried that some things may be left out. He pointed out that public comment on the policy closes on Sunday, April 19, 2026.
Those wishing to comment may write to: Director-General, address: Florence Modipa, Chief Education Specialist: Curriculum Policy, Department of Basic Education, 222 Struben Street, Pretoria, 0001; or send them to: Department of Basic Education, Private Bag X895, Pretoria, 0001; or email them to:(email protected).