The Department of Basic Education (DBE) is a vital part of South Africa’s education system, responsible for overseeing the country’s primary and secondary education. Established in 2009, the DBE emerged from the division of the former Department of Education into two entities—the DBE and the Department of Higher Education and Training—during the presidency of Jacob Zuma. This move was intended to streamline and improve the focus on different levels of education, from basic to higher learning.

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What Does the Department of Basic Education (DBE) Do?

The DBE plays a critical role in shaping the future of South Africa by ensuring that all children receive quality education from grades R (Reception) to 12. It is responsible for:

• Curriculum Development: The DBE sets the national curriculum for all grades, ensuring that students receive a balanced and comprehensive education.
• School Oversight: The department monitors public schools across the country, providing guidelines, support, and accountability for educators and administrators.
• Educational Policies: The DBE formulates and implements policies that aim to improve the quality of education, ensure equitable access, and reduce dropout rates.
• National Exams: It oversees the administration of critical national exams such as the National Senior Certificate (NSC) for matric students, ensuring standardization and fairness.
• Partnerships with Stakeholders: The department collaborates with various educational stakeholders, including private school associations like ISASA (Independent Schools Association of Southern Africa) and NAISA (National Alliance of Independent Schools Associations).

Structure and Leadership

The DBE is headed by the Minister of Basic Education, a position currently held by Angie Motshekga since May 2009. She is responsible for providing strategic leadership and ensuring that educational goals align with South Africa’s broader developmental objectives.

The department is headquartered in Sol Plaatje House, located at 222 Struben Street in Pretoria, named after the South African writer and intellectual Sol Plaatje.

Notable Achievements and Challenges

Achievements:

• Curriculum 2005 & CAPS: One of the department’s key achievements was the introduction of Curriculum 2005 and its revision into the Curriculum and Assessment Policy Statement (CAPS), which aimed to simplify the curriculum and make it more accessible for teachers and learners.
• School Feeding Programs: The DBE also administers the National School Nutrition Programme (NSNP), ensuring that millions of students receive meals, which is vital for learning.

Challenges:

Despite its achievements, the DBE has faced several challenges. One of the most notable was the 2012 Limpopo textbook crisis, where the department failed to deliver textbooks to schools on time, sparking widespread criticism and protests.

Contact Information

For any inquiries or issues, you can reach the DBE through the following channels:

• National Office: 222 Struben Street, Pretoria
• Call Centre: 0800 202 933 | Email: callcentre@dbe.gov.za
• Switchboard: 012 357 3000
• Certification Queries: certification@dbe.gov.za | 012 357 4511/3