South Africans given until May to weigh in on draft history syllabus

The Department of Education has extended public comment on the draft history curriculum for grades 4 to 12 by a further 30 days.

The proposal forms part of a broader caps review, which seeks to update how history is taught in schools, with a greater focus on critical thinking and multiple historical perspectives.

The extension follows public interest in the document, which has drawn input from education experts, teachers and civil society groups.

The department said the extension will allow more stakeholders to engage with the proposals before any final decision is made.

The draft has also raised broader discussions around how South Africa’s history is taught, including the balance of content on Colonialism, Apartheid and democratic history.

The department said the review will modernise the curriculum and improve critical analysis among learners 

Meanwhile, some education groups have called for careful implementation to avoid content imbalances.

All submissions will now close on the new deadline in May and will be considered before finalisation.