Basic Education Minister Gwarube's curriculum review sparks debate

Mike Wills interviews Professor Mary Metcalfe, Education expert. 

Listen below.

Minister of Basic Education, Siviwe Gwarube has announced her intention to establish a consultative forum comprising representatives from the education sector, trade unions, school governing bodies, and other stakeholders.

This forum will undertake a comprehensive review of the school curriculum.

This initiative has sparked debate about its necessity, with many questioning whether there are more urgent priorities in basic education.

While acknowledging that a curriculum review is not unprecedented and should be part of Gwarube's overall strategy, Metcalfe argues that her lack of background in education underscores the importance of engaging key stakeholders to identify strengths and weaknesses in the current system.

"A review doesn't mean it will result in changes."

- Professor Mary Metcalfe, Education expert

Metcalfe emphasises that anyone, although she does not attribute this intention to Gwarube, looking to make sweeping changes to the curriculum will quickly realise its complexity.

She highlights the necessity for extensive consultation, especially with key stakeholders, as fundamental to any curriculum overhaul.

According to Metcalfe, altering the curriculum triggers extensive ripple effects.

For instance, modifying subjects affects teacher training requirements, while adjusting content necessitates revisions to textbooks and learning materials.

"All of those are processes that take years and years."

- Professor Mary Metcalfe, Education expert

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