AFRICAN NATIONAL CONGRESS 55^TH NATIONAL CONFERENCE RESOLUTIONS

EDUCATION, HEALTH, SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

1. Opening remarks and welcome:

1.1 This is a report of conference with resolutions of the Education, Health, Science and Technology sector.

1.2 The commission noted important points from the Political Report, the Organisational Report and the Strategy and Tactics of the ANC, matters related to the Balance of Forces, Organisational Renewal and Organisational Design, Constitutional Implications, Gender Equity and Emancipation of Women, Combating State Capture and Corruption, as it embarked on the business of the national conference.

1.3 The commission noted the assessment of the work performed during the period of 2017 to 2022 and ensured that new policy proposals are not a repetition of resolutions and programmes of past conferences and directives of past NEC meetings.

1.4 Members of commissions noted and endorsed recommendations of the 6th ANC National Policy Conference.

1.5 Proposed policy and programme changes focused mainly on injecting more energy into implementation in the ANC and in government, where government serves as the ANC delivery tool or mechanism

1.6 These resolutions are the final product of discussions of recommendations extracted from the 2022 Special Edition of Umrabulo on the Policy Conference, the Report of the 6th National Policy Conference and additions from inputs submitted by provinces, discussions of Commissions 11 and 12 of the 55th ANC National Conference and discussions in the plenary at conference.

2. Important cross-cutting matters drawn to the attention of conference by Commission 11 and 12:

2.1 Challenges of service delivery, contributions of the ANC NEC and PEC Subcommittees on Education, Health, Science and Technology to the leadership of the sectors in the ANC and in government, the evaluation of performance of the four sectors against targets set by past conferences, the address by the President of the ANC to conference, a call for constructive contributions to discussions in the national conference, a request for delegates to avoid repeating existing ANC resolutions; and recommendation to conference.

2.2 That the national Cabinet has recently adopted the Science, Technology and Innovation Decadal Plan 2021-2031, which will be shared with all interested parties post this conference.

2.3 That the Universities of Pretoria and Mpumalanga are the only two that teach IsiNdebele; and that this is the reality of the teaching of indigenous Africa languages in South Africa. This leads to the problem of low production of foundation phase educators who are qualified to teach indigenous languages. The lack of keenness by many children to study indigenous African languages adds to this challenge.

2.4 That nursing education is being integrated into the national qualification framework.

2.5 That matters that affect military veterans, particularly former combatants of the People’s Army, Umkhonto we Sizwe. For example, the demand that the remains of those who fell in battle in foreign lands must be repatriated. These matters are intersectoral and cut through various departments of government such as sports, arts and culture, higher education and training and health.

2.6 Resolutions of previous conferences that must be carried over to the period beyond the 55th ANC National Conference must be clearly identified, amended and presented.

2.7 Black Women representation, for example in the appointment of Black Women Vice Chancellors, must be increased.

2.8 Education and training in science, technology, engineering, arts and mathematics (STEAM) must continue to be prioritised.

2.9 Government must seriously consider centralising funds for health infrastructure, especially money for clinics, community health centres and hospitals maintenance.

2.10 Note must be taken of provinces that are falling behind in terms of quality and standards, and the fact that this deterioration reflects badly on the leadership of the ANC.

2.11 The existence of discrimination or apartheid in the Western Cape was raised as a matter of concern. The Western Cape must not be regarded by the ANC as untouchable. The ANC must be proactive and urgently act to eradicate discrimination or apartheid. It must also assist residents of the Western Cape to deal with these concerns. Members of Parliament (MPs) must engage the people of the Western Cape when they are in Cape Town, for example, be active in programmes of placing children in schools towards the end of the year and when schools reopen in the beginning of the year.

2.12 The ANC must ensure that education, health, science, and technology programmes incorporate relevant aspects of the District Development Model (DDM).

2.13 The ANC must ensure that the social determinants of health are addressed in line with the District Development Model.

2.14 Serious consideration must be given by the ANC to re-stablishing ANC-led policy research units in the ANC and in various public and private institutions.

3. New resolutions of the ANC as adopted by the 55th ANC National Conference:

3.1 Cross-cutting issues:

3.1.1 The 2020 COVID-19 local epidemic and associated global pandemic:

1. Noting that:

There are many important lessons that we learnt from the COVID-19 local epidemic and the COVID-19 global pandemic.

2. Therefore, resolve that:

1. All sectors, especially the Basic Education sector, build on the curriculum and assessment tools and practices utilized during the pandemic.

2. The school curriculum must be reformed to avail mandatory programmes on mental health.

3. Sectors must strengthen their forced leap into the digital space and acknowledge that, as much as classrooms and working spaces remain important, the digital and technological space is very important.

4. Continue to work towards increasing access to the digital space, digitized learning materials, assistive technologies, and other resources.

5. Build a resilient system ready to face future disasters such as deadly epidemics and crises caused by the damage to the environment.

3.1.2 Women’s health:

1 Noting that:

1. The health of mothers and their children is the key to achieving development and equity.

2. South Africa is said not to be on track to meet the three (3) inter-related Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) concerning women, as set out by members of the United Nations.

2. Therefore, resolve that:

1. Women’s health, including universal access to reproductive health services, health as a human right and the Choice of Termination of Pregnancy, must be prioritized in all public and private health facilities.

2. Focus on women’s health must include the psychological effects of miscarriage.

3. A research group must be established to investigate women’s health services and rights.

4. The 15th of October, the World Pregnancy, and Infant Loss Remembrance Day, must be officially incorporated into the country’s calendar.

3.1.3 Women’s Emancipation:

1. Noting that:

1. The recommendations made in the approved paper on Women’s Emancipation presented to the 2022 ANC National Policy Conference.

2. Therefore, resolve that:

1. Conference endorses the said recommendations.

2. The ANC design and adopt sector-specific programmes that flow from these recommendations for implementation and continuous monitoring and evaluation.

3.1.4 Gender-Based Violence and Femicide:

1 Noting that:

1. South Africa has a very high rate of gender-based violence and femicide (GBVF).

2. The ANC and government have taken resolutions and has policies on GBVF.

3. There are serious concerns about the DNA backlog at Forensic Laboratory Services.

2. Therefore, resolve that:

1. The ANC reviews and re-endorse its resolutions on Gender-Based Violence and Femicide (GBVF).

2. The education sector considers the introduction of Lesbian-Gay-Bisexual-Transgender-Queer-Intersex (LGBTQI) awareness in schools, the training of teachers in LGBTQI education and the introduction of health care gender-affirming programmes such as access to hormonal therapy in health facilities, where clinically appropriate.

3. Conference directs the Cabinet to ensure that relevant departments collaborate and presents a costed plan and programme that will ensure that the country standard for processing forensic pathology specimens especially DNA tests is within three months of receipt.

4. Conference directs the ANC NEC Subcommittee on Legal and Constitutional Affairs to lead a process of creating a victim-friendly criminal justice system through a constitutional amendment, that must consider the rights of victims of crimes to balance the rights of the accused, as enshrined in the Constitution of the Republic to make the system victim-centric.

5. Thuthuzela Centres must be established in every district.

6. A specific office be established to deal with cases of gender-based violence.

3.1.5 The District Development Model:

1. Noting that:

1. The District Development Model (DDM) aims to improve the coherence and impact of government service delivery around the country.

2. Under the District Development Model all three spheres of government coordinate and integrate development plans and budgets and mobilise the capacity and resources of government and civil society in pursuit of inclusive growth.

2. Therefore, resolve that:

1. The ANC must ensure that education, health, science, and technology programmes, including those that address the social determinants of health, incorporate relevant aspects of the District Development Model (DDM).

3.1.6 Generating and harvesting Intellectual Property:

1. Noting that:

1. South Africa needs to generate and accumulate its own Intellectual Property (IP) necessary for the development of technology and the growth of various industries.

2. State Owned Entities are wellplaced to protect and control strategic sectors of the economy whilst promoting skills development and the employment of South Africans, thereby contributing to economic growth.

2. Therefore, resolve that:

1. The ANC study, adopt and use the structure of ownership of State-Owned Entities (SOEs), that mirrors e.g., the Chinese way, to generate and harvest Intellectual Property (IP) in all industries such as the automotive, pharmaceutical and space technology, as one of the contributions by the Higher Education and Science and Technology sectors.

3.1.7 A better synergy between the Higher Education and Training or PSET sector and the Science and Innovation (SI) sector:

1 Noting that:

1. The Higher Education, Training, Science and Innovation System for higher socioeconomic impact is successfully upscaling innovations such as the development of the Hydrogen Society Roadmap and the vaccine manufacturing strategy.

2. Therefore, resolve that:

1. The Higher Education and Training sector and the Science and Innovation sector pursue programmes that strengthen further a better synergy between them.

3.1.8 On matters environment in the context of education, health, science, and technology.

1. Noting that:

1. In South Africa environmental education is poor.

2. Matters environment include, amongst others, protection of the environment from damage, environmental sustainability, reforestation, pollution, greenhouse effect and global warming, climate change and waste disposal.

3. There is a needed to integrate in all sectors environmental policy and decision making to position the workforce as an important stakeholder in matters environment.

2. Therefore, resolve that:

1. The ANC prioritises and strengthens the capacity of education and health systems to engage in environmental action.

2. The ANC environmental education, health, science, and technology strategy be based on science and orientated to environmental activism and not only on climate change.

3. The ANC adopts programmes to get South Africa and the African continent taking a lead in matters of the environment such as preservation and protection of fauna and flora, reforestation and climate change through science, technology, and innovation.

4. The ANC adopts programmes to promote the development of appropriate technology for the safe use of coal, one of the three forms of fossil fuels, for energy generation.

5. Environmental education and actions take an intersectional approach.

6. The programmes on matters environment also focus on environmental justice.

3.2 The ANC NEC Subcommittee on Education, Health, Science and Technology, and equivalent ANC PEC Subcommittees Science and Technology: There were no new resolutions pertaining to the Subcommittee that were proposed for adoption by conference. Previous resolutions are hereby endorsed.

3.3 Science and Technology:

3.3.1 Recognising the need for integrated technology planning to support national economic development:

1. Noting that:

1. The finalisation of the STI Decadal Plan.

2. Technology is a strategic national capability and asset that can define the progress or regression of a nation, and not just a mere enabler.

3. Science, technology, and innovation is a political matter that remains central to the advancement of our National Democratic Revolution (NDR).

4. Science, technology, and innovation is as an important factor that can be used to promote and achieve employment, take South Africans out of poverty, and reduce inequality.

5. Technology Exercises for STI or Long-Term Sustainable Planning on Science, Technology, and Innovation (STI) is important.

2. Therefore, resolve that:

1. There be a deliberate plan for a science-technology-innovation-led industrial and socio-economic development.

2. An inclusive national system of innovation be established and funded to contribute to transformation and inclusive development.

3. Cabinet must consider ring-fencing of the STI budget across the three (3) spheres of government.

4. The ANC establish a competitive strategy that has science, technology, and innovation as its critical components.

5. The ANC drive programmes to achieve through science, technology and innovation the eradication of unemployment and inequality, economic development, sustainable growth, poverty eradication, unlock and propel beneficiation of strategic minerals and other raw commodities such as agricultural produce through agro processing.

3. Further resolve to:

1. Promote the acquisition of and continue to prioritise science, technology, engineering, arts and mathematics (STEAM) skills.

2. To conduct business through structured and systematic international cooperation.

3. Make e-government an imperative; and

4 Ensure that the country’s military and the military industry contribute to the country’s technological advancement through research, technology, and innovation.

4. Direct the sector to submit progress report regularly to the ANC NEC through the Subcommittee.

3.4 The education sector:

3.4.1 The funding of education:

1. Noting that:

1. There are challenges including budgetary constraints in the funding of education.

2. Therefore, resolve that:

1. The education sector urgently studies the funding of education, including early childhood development (ECD), basic education, higher education and training and relevant state academic institutions, and report to the ANC.

2. The provision of Learning Resources must be from ECD level.

3. Learning and Teaching Support Material (LTSM) provision must cover all learning areas without creating platforms for budget cuts.

4. The ANC revisit or re-discuss the principles of universal access to education for all, as expressed in the ideals of the 1943 African Claims, the 1955 Freedom Charter, the 1963 South African Communist Party Programme: Road to South African Freedom and the 1994 Reconstruction and Development Programme in the context of today’s realities.

3.4.2 On the commitment to integrate alternative forms of education into the South African education system:

1. Noting that:

1. The imperative for South Africa to include in its approach the increased use of on-line and webbased education and training.

2. Therefore, resolve that:

1. Access and use of knowledge and information that is available in abundance through digital means be integrated into the method and practice of teaching and subjects of our education system.

2. Digitisation using the most advanced of tools, be compulsory at all levels of education, with special focus on rural as well as all disadvantaged communities.

3.4.3 Upscaling training in hard artisanal skills:

1. Noting that:

1. The acquisition of artisanal skills is critical to economic development.

2. South Africa is severely lacking in artisanal skills and is estimated to be having a shortage of about 40 000 artisans.

3. South Africa must produce at least 30 000 qualified artisans to meet labour demands.

2. Therefore, resolve that:

1. The South Africans education and training sector must upscale training in hard artisanal skills such as carpenters, painters, plasterers, tilers, jewellers, metalworkers, and weavers to increase the chances of skilled personnel being employed.

3.4.4 Promotion of technical and vocational education and training as the first career choice:

1. Noting that:

1. The education sector has adopted the national and provincial Master Skills Plans.

2. Poor progress has been made towards the making vocational and technical training the most attractive career option for most learners in our country.

3. Career Guidance must be linked with the matching of skills and interests from foundation levels.

4. Most learners at schools aspire to enrol at universities by obtaining a bachelor’s pass in their National Senior Certificate (NSC) examinations.

5. The general approach of the DHET, the South African academia and many government departments such as the Department of Health is to eradicate technical and artisanal skills, to do away with diplomas as acceptable qualifications and to promote university degrees as the only indicator of professional qualifications in most disciplines.

6. Industry contributes through its employment practices to the everted triangle of skills provision where the norm for engineers: technicians and artisans is no longer 1:4:16 on the average.

7. A considerable number of college-educated graduates are unemployed because having not received Work Integrated Learning (WIL) during their years of education and training and thereafter because of lack of opportunities to do practical training post-qualification.

8. The challenge that remains is how to eradicate the national myth that promotes university education as the first and best choice.

9. Making vocational and technical training attractive would be possible if the ANC HET and BE sectors could review and confirm the correctness of the scale of achievement for the National Curriculum Statement Grades 10-12 in line with the approved Policy for the National Senior Certificate (NSC) and together work out solutions.

2 Therefore, resolve that:

1. The BE sector in collaboration with the HET sector seriously consider the nomenclature it uses to describe its passes at NSC.

2. The HET sector uses Work Integrated Learning (WIL) to improve the collaboration between colleges and various industries plus improve the employability of learners throughout their years of training.

3. The sector embarks on programmes that promote the active collaboration between the PSET sector, industry, schools and communities to realise the value of technicians, artisans and tradesmen-tradeswomen in production and manufacturing.

4. Exchange programmes must be embarked upon with Germany and BRICS countries to bring back lessons on skills planning and development and to drive the skills revolution in South Africa.

3.4.5 Promoting teaching as a profession:

1. Noting that:

1. Teaching is a profession that lies at the heart of both the teaching and learning of children and youth and their social, cultural, and economic development.

2. The term professional must be understood to relate to a specified paid occupation and not a qualification obtained only from a university.

3. The attractiveness of the teaching profession needs to be urgently improved.

4. The current generation of teachers is ageing, and alarming numbers of new teachers are leaving the profession within the first years of employment.

5. The professional commitment of teachers and academics to the education and welfare of their students should be recognized and respected.

6. The status of young teachers, academic staff, researchers, and education employees deserves particular attention.

2 Therefore, resolve that:

1. The past resolutions of the ANC on teacher training and the re-establishment of teacher training colleges are reaffirmed.

2. Teacher education must be offered in teacher training colleges and universities up to the highest post-graduate levels of study.

3. The state and teachers’ unions collaborate in the development of strategies, plans and programmes for the development of the teaching profession.

3.4.6 Deepened monitoring and enhanced partnership with private education:

1. Noting that:

1. There is a need for systematic monitoring of the private education sector.

2. There is a need for enhanced partnership between government and private education institutions.

2. Therefore, resolve that:

1. Government review in line with ANC policy all its policies, laws and regulations that pertain to private education to ensure maximum gains for the entire citizenry.

2. A broadened consultative platform be established between government, private education practitioners as well as all education stakeholders such as organised civil society to maintain good country standards and promote synergy.

3.5 Basic Education:

3.5.1 The Basic Education Laws Amendment Bill:

1. Noting that:

1. The Basic Education Laws Amendment (BELA) Bill is currently being processed in Parliament.

2. The Bela Bill is a transformative draft law aimed at, amongst others, to amend various laws to align them with developments in the education landscape to ensure that systems of learning are put in place in a manner that gives effect to the right to basic education.

2. Therefore, resolve that:

1. The Basic Education Laws Amendment (BELA) Bill be supported to ensure ongoing mobilisation of communities.

3.5.2 Overcrowding in Schools:

1. Noting that:

1. There are many areas in our country where schools have overcrowded classrooms because of a variety of factors.

2. Overcrowding ultimately leads to poor educational outcomes because of the inability of learners to learn, difficulties of educators to teach and compromised learners where they are unable to receive quality education.

2. Therefore, resolve that:

1. The ANC and government address overcrowding in schools as a matter of urgency with the aim of delivering on this item by December 2023.

2. The Ministry of Basic Education and PEC Subcommittees on Education, Health, Science and Technology submit quarterly progress reports on the implementation of this resolution, including the implementation of the Special Intervention Programme on Overcrowding in Schools (SIPOS), to the ANC NEC through the Subcommittee.

3.5.3 Oversight of schools:

1. Noting that:

1. Effective oversight of schools is critical for effective teaching and learning.

2. Oversight of schools protects learners, parents and teachers and promotes active participation of stakeholders in constantly identifying areas of that need improvement even in the best performing schools.

3. There are serious concerns that have been raised about corruption in schools and the involvement of members of the SGBs in some of these incidents.

2. Therefore, resolve that:

1. Local ANC structures working with and through School Governing Bodies (SGBs) and communities perform effective oversight of schools.

2. ANC structures adopt and encourage the adoption of schools for ease of oversight, regular monitoring and support.

3. School Governing Bodies (SGBs) must not be part of the employment and procurement processes in schools to reduce and eradicate incidents of involvement of SGB members in corruption in schools.

3.5.4 Migration patterns of families and learners accessing education in South Africa:

1. Noting that:

1. Uncontrolled internal migration and immigration affect the access of schools and schooling adversely.

2. Lack of data on migration results in inequitable provision of educational resources such as teachers and infrastructure in many areas.

2. Therefore, resolve that:

1. Migration patterns of families and learners accessing education in South Africa must be monitored and be reported upon regularly to the ANC NEC through the Subcommittee to ensure that the provision of infrastructure does not result in leaving newly built schools as white elephants.

3.5.5 Additional resolutions considered by and recommended for adoption by conference:

1. Noting that:

1. Noting that the following serious concerns have been raised by the membership of the ANC and society about these matters.

2. Therefore, resolve that:

1. Compulsory driver training: All students go through compulsory drivers training by the time they complete their National Senior Certificate (NSC).

2. Home Schooling: Home schooling must be reviewed.

3. Bullying in schools: Bullying in schools must be constantly addressed.

3.6 Higher Education and Training:

3.6.1 Review and intensification of transformation of tertiary education:

1. Noting that:

1. The South African colleges and universities continue to struggle with matters of transformation.

2. The Africa Wealth Report 2022 states that the top universities for producing High Net Worth Individuals (HNWIs) are the University of Cape Town, the University of Witwatersrand, Rhodes University, the University of South Africa, Stellenbosch University and the University of Pretoria.

3. Medical specialist training is not transformative but is discriminatory against indigenous South Africans.

4. A similar picture of lack of transformation from apartheid to democracy exists in the college sector.

2 Therefore, resolve that:

1. The national transformation programme focusing on colleges and universities, including the transformation of medical specialist training, be reviewed and intensified.

2. Such effort includes unequivocal resonance with overall transformation agenda of our country.

3. The concept and practice of “academic independence” must be reviewed and refined to ensure that government is able to productively invest in and facilitate the transformation of tertiary education or the higher education and training sector which are South Africa’s Post-School Education and Training Sector.

4. Tri-annual assessment summits must be held by stakeholders to ensure consistency in progress without fail.

3.6.2 The vision of the Higher Education and Training and the Post-School Education and Training Sector:

1. Noting that:

1. The vision of the Higher Education and Training (HET) sector in South Africa in which we have a differentiated and fully inclusive post-school system that allows South Africans to access relevant Post-School Education and Training (PSET), to fulfil the economic and social goals of participation in an inclusive economy and society, is noted and endorsed.

2. There is a need for all South Africans to have a clear understanding of the Post-School Education and Training (PSET) sector.

2. Therefore, resolve that:

1. The sector be considered as and be referred to as the Post-School Education and Training (PSET) sector, which includes higher education and training, vocational education, community education and various skills initiatives.

3.6.3 A seamless PSET System articulated well to Basic Education:

1. Noting that:

1. It is necessary to have a seamless education system that is responsive to the needs of communities and the economy.

2. Therefore, resolve that:

1. A better coordinated and seamless PSET System well-articulated to Basic Education be strengthened and focussed to deal with the scourge of unemployment at 34.5% with 4 million young people (15-24yrs) not in employment or any education and training opportunities.

3.6.4 Progress in the Higher Education and Innovation system:

1 Noting that:

1. A lot of progress has been achieved in the Higher Education and Innovation system.

2 Therefore, resolve that:

1. More intensive work must be performed in the following key areas:

1.1 Strengthening the Higher Education, training and Innovation system.

1.2 Expanded access to PSET opportunities: a highly articulated PSET system with a focus on massive expansion of the college system.

1.3 Improved efficiency and success of the of the PSET System: improved quality of programmes, teaching and research; improved business processes at all institutions including public entities and curriculum transformation and programme revision to ensure alignment the Three Stream Curriculum Model of Basic Education with relevance to the workplace and to ensure portability of acquired qualifications.

1.4 Alignment of the skills development system to improve employment of graduates: strengthening partnerships and forging meaningful collaboration between the Higher Education, Science and Innovation (HESI) system and organised employers, labour and business.

1.5 Immediate attention be paid to shortages in engineering skills and middle level skills.

1.6 The establishment of a new Veterinary School, Policing, and Science and Innovation Universities.

3.6.5 Expansion of digital programmes:

1. Noting that:

1. The increased use of technology has enabled learning experience to be people centred.

2. Technology enhanced learning gives educators and students the opportunity to increase their knowledge and advance their skills in novel ways.

2. Therefore, resolve that:

1. The provision of digital programmes must be expanded.

2. The PSET sector must put greater focus on improving its offering of digital programmes by colleges, universities, other academic institutions, and various industries.

3.7 Health:

3.7.1 Declaring health, a priority:

1. Noting that:

1. Health is and remains a priority for the ANC, government and country.

2. There is a need to intensify programmes to ensure ongoing improvement in the quality of health care and health services.

2. Therefore, resolve that:

1. The resolutions of conference that declared health a priority of the African National Congress and of the government are reaffirmed.

3.7.2 Reviewing the nature of the South African health system and the appropriateness of its front-line care providers:

1. Noting that:

1. The South African health system has evolved in response of material conditions which shaped its structure and function of its human resources over the years.

2. There is a dire need to constantly review its nature and appropriateness of its human capital.

2. Therefore, resolve that:

1. The ANC health sector must review the South African health system and recommend whether South Africa should return or not return to the situation where the first tier in the health system is the front-line care provided by family doctors.

3.8 Military veterans:

3.8.1 Directing Cabinet and government to prioritise and provide finance and other resources such as pathology services to provide appropriate assistance to anti-apartheid military veterans and their families:

1. Noting that:

1. Military veterans, especially former liberation war veterans, have served South Africa with distinction and that many paid the supreme sacrifice for our freedom.

2. Former combatants of the South African liberation movement have challenges that cut across all sectors of our society and all services.

2. Therefore, resolve that:

1. Government must prioritise and provide finance and other resources such as pathology services to assist and enable families of military veterans to get closure by repatriating the remains of all those who passed away in foreign lands because of combat or battles, diseases and various causes during the struggle against apartheid.

4. Resolutions from the 54th ANC National Conference and previous conferences which were re-affirmed, amended, rescinded, and adopted by the 55th ANC National Conference in 2022.

4.1 Cross-cutting issues:

4.1.1 The ANC Policy cycle: Increasing the ANC policy review cycle to ten (10) years:

1. Noting that:

1. The resolution directing that the ANC policy review cycle be increased from five (5) years to at least ten (10) years with a five-yearly review was not processed and therefore not implemented by the ANC NEC.

2. Therefore, resolve that:

1. The resolution is reaffirmed.

2. The ANC policy system must be strengthened and its policy, monitoring and evaluation capacity increased.

3. A move be taken towards transforming the policy system to work continuously and sustainably and not just before policy conferences.

4.2 The ANC NEC Subcommittee on Education, Health, Science and Technology, and equivalent ANC PEC Subcommittees Science and Technology:

4.2.1 Audit of mobile schools and clinics by ANC branches:

1. Noting that:

1. No progress has been made in the audit of mobile schools and clinics by branches of the ANC.

2. The DBE has the lists of mobile schools.

2. Therefore, resolve that:

1. That the resolution of conference is reaffirmed.

2. The Subcommittee receive the list of mobile schools from the DBE and prioritise the implementation of this resolution by ANC BECs, RECs and PECs and report to the NEC.

4.3 Science, Technology and Innovation:

4.3.1 The following resolutions of past conferences, which were fully implemented by the ANC and the ANC-led government, are hereby submitted to conference for re-endorsement and for directives for their further implementation:

1. Policies be adopted to promote the recognition of the prevalence of Science, Technology and Innovation (STI) in daily life and that these serve to encourage learners in schools, students at colleges and universities and workers in every sector to invent new technologies and products by analysing and learning from those imported and used daily in their lives.

2. Public engagement on and promotion of science, technology and innovation be intensified.

3. The ANC leads society to think more positively about ourselves and our innovation capabilities and publicises advances that have been made by South African scientists and innovators.

4. On the promotion of new innovations and invention of new technologies.

4.3.2 To increase investment in Research and Development and attract adequate funding of R&D across all sectors and throughout the country:

1. Noting that:

1. The Gross Domestic Expenditure on Research and Development (GERD) has persisted in its decline over the years.

2. It has been worsened by the persistent decline in business investment and inadequate government investment in R&D, especially at provincial and local government level.

3. The decrease in R&D expenditure by state-owned enterprises (SOEs) added to this.

2. Therefore, resolve that:

1. That the resolution of conference is reaffirmed.

2. A new target must be set on the funding for country research and development.

3. The ANC cultivates the culture of research, development, innovation, the increased use of technology in provincial governments, the business sector especially the SMMEs, the financial sector and the manufacturing sector.

4. South Africans must be convinced that research and development linked to manufacturing for self-sufficiency through local consumption first and later for export, is a good norm especially if facilitated through collaboration in R&D by every business with local colleges, universities and other academic institutions such as the CSIR and relevant industries.

5. Budget coordination must be implemented by setting aside or ring-fencing R&D funding at local and provincial government level.

6. All stakeholders must be urged to significantly increase their contribution to the development and employment of R&D personnel.

7. Stakeholders must be urged to contribute positively to an increase in R&D in medical and health sciences and engineering.

4.3.3 On the use and increase of uptake of locally produced technologies:

1. Noting that:

1. The resolution of conference was not implemented in the public and private sector.

2. Despite good progress that is being made in implementing this resolution, government, labour and business are not demonstrating any material increase in their uptake of locally produced technologies.

2. Therefore, resolve that:

1. A law be drafted to compel government and private companies to use and increase their uptake of locally produced technologies.

2. The ANC and government encourage students, youth and workers to copy and make new equipment to meet local societal needs.

3. The ANC and government embark on a campaign of “Made in South Africa! Buy South African! Local is lekker! Local is best!”.

4.3.4 On the coordination and harmonisation of policies and incentives related to STI.

1. Noting that:

4.3.4.1.1 The coordination and harmonisation of policies and incentives related to science, technology and innovation in across all sectors of society and the economy is still far from ideal.

2. The implementation of this resolution is achieving less impact than desired.

2. Therefore, resolve that:

1. The resolution of conference is reaffirmed.

2. A focused process, namely Budget Coordination, be set up between government departments to coordinate and harmonise policies and incentives, especially those related to STI.

3. The same must be set up between the Subcommittee and the ANC Economic Transformation Committee (ETC) to ensure that this resolution is implemented in the government and in the private sector.

4.3.5 On the use of STI within and across the public sector as an enabler of service delivery:

1. Noting that:

1. The resolution of conference was not implemented in the public sector across national departments, statutory bodies, SOEs, provinces and local government institutions.

2. The take up and utilisation of STI by the public sector is not always recognised as providing possible solutions to improved delivery of services to communities by potential users in provinces and local government.

2. Therefore, resolve that:

1. The resolution of conference is reaffirmed.

2. A coordinating mechanism, namely the STI Presidential Plenary and Inter-Ministerial Committee and the New Management Model, be considered and implemented to improve the use of STI within and across the public sector and as an enabler of service delivery.

4.3.6 On the promotion of new innovations and invention of new technologies:

1. Noting that:

1. The resolution of conference was not implemented widely.

2. Insufficient progress has been made to cultivate a culture of inventing new technologies and products amongst learners in schools, students at colleges and universities and workers in every sector, viz. growing the Made in South Africa movement.

3. The type of entrepreneurship that is being promoted across society is not consciously linked to value-add to tradeable commodities, research and development, innovation, and technology.

2 Therefore, resolve that:

1. The resolution of conference be reaffirmed.

2. The science and technology sector report to the Subcommittee quarterly on the implementation of this resolution.

4.3.7 Programmes that are designed for farms, villages, townships and poor towns and cities:

1. Noting that:

1. Good progress has been made, but that reports of such progress have not been submitted to the Subcommittee and the ANC NEC.

2. The ST sector has not tabled in this reporting period the addition of similar programmes to promote science literacy and the creation of WiFi spots, as directed by conference.

2. Therefore, resolve that:

1. The Science, Technology and Innovation sector must urgently present to the ANC NEC through the Subcommittee a funded and implementable plan and programmes that are designed for rural areas, townships and poor towns and cities to promote science literacy programmes and the creation of Wi-Fi spots to attain the objectives of this resolution.

4.3.8 State pharmaceutical company:

1. Noting that:

1. Ketlaphela Pharmaceutical StateOwned Company Limited was established in response to the directive of the Cabinet of the Republic of South Africa.

2. One of the challenges facing this programme is that some stakeholders and government officials regard Ketlaphela as a threat to the private pharmaceutical sector, particularly manufacturers of generic pharmaceutical products.

3. This project is not implemented by the health sector, but by the Department of Science and Innovation.

2. Therefore, resolve that:

1. Conference re-affirms its previous resolutions on the establishment of a state-owned pharmaceutical company.

2. The ANC, particularly the Subcommittee, review the conduct and performance of and benefits of the state from all state-owned pharmaceutical companies.

3. The ANC develop a policy that ensure majority share ownership of these companies by the state to guarantee that the Intellectual Property (IP) that accrues from these companies and Public-Private Partnerships belong to the state.

4. The Health, Higher Education and Training, Science and Innovation implement this resolution urgently in collaboration with relevant department of government.

5. The Ketlaphela, the project on the state pharmaceutical company, be accelerated and that the local production of pharmaceuticals, vaccines and medical devices should be prioritized.

4.4 The education sector:

4.4.1 Declaring education an apex priority:

1. Noting that:

1. Education and health are priorities for the ANC and the country.

2. There are aspects of education that have room for improvement.

2. Therefore, resolve that:

1. The resolution of conference that declared education an apex priority of the African National Congress and the government is reaffirmed.

4.4.2 A comprehensive review of the education and training system:

1. Noting that:

1. The resolution has not been implemented.

2. The Basic Education sector working with the Higher Education and Training sector and the National Treasury have not submitted a comprehensive review of the education and training system to the ANC by April 2019, as directed by resolutions of conferences.

2. Therefore, resolve that:

1. The resolution of conference is reaffirmed.

2. The BE sector must urgently convene a meeting with the Higher Education and Training sector and the National Treasury and start with a comprehensive review of the education and training system as directed by conference.

3. The Subcommittee must submit quarterly reports to the ANC NEC on this matter.

4.5 Basic Education: These draft resolutions include those whose purpose is to increase the safety net of learners through pro-poor policies to cover learners who are deserving such as ECD, and learners with special education needs.

4.5.1 The Three-Stream Curriculum Model of Basic Education:

1. Noting that:

1. The strategic objective of the Three-Stream Curriculum Model of Basic Education is to increase learner access to academic, technical-vocational and technical-occupational streams of education and training at school level to meet the needs of society and the economy.

2. The challenge lack of understanding and uniformity of implementation are some of the factors faced by the sector and society.

3. The sector is making good progress in the implementation of the Three-Stream Curriculum Model of Basic Education.

2. Therefore, resolve that:

1. The Three-Stream Curriculum Model of Basic Education is supported, and its implementation must be accelerated.

4.5.2 Strategic alignment and repositioning of the basic education sector:

1. Noting that:

1. Good progress is being made in the implementation of policies and programmes that are relevant to this resolution towards achieving good quality teaching and learning outcomes.

2. The sector identified the need for policy change to promote the recognition of teachers as professionals.

2. Therefore, resolve that:

1. The subcommittee discuss and recommend to the NEC the requested policy change to promote the professional recognition of teachers.

2. The sector establishes and maintain a common alignment and approach to basic education throughout the sector and provinces.

3. The sector to continue guaranteeing the consistency of approach in the implementation of the Quality Management System (QMS).

4.5.3 Operation Phakisa in education:

1. Noting that:

1. Good progress is being made in the speeding up implementation of this Presidential Programme on ICT in schools.

2. Partnerships contributed to the progress made.

3. The greatest challenges are in rural areas where many areas do not have connectivity because of lack of ICT infrastructure and systems.

4. Educators could link remotely to learners in several schools and then move around these schools whenever necessary.

2. Therefore, resolve that:

1. The sector work through the Cabinet to secure adequate funding for this priority project.

2. The sector continues to explore alternative technologies.

3. The sector advocates for a review of regulations plus pursue the zero-rating of data to ensure that the e-rate policy is implemented.

4. Information and Communication Technology (ICT) and other technologies must be used to improve access to education, especially in schools with few learners.

5. The rollout by government of Broad Band Information and Communication Technology (ICT) to all areas and provision of connectivity in all schools for the purpose of teaching and learning and the provision of additional and continuous support for children with special needs be expedited.

4.5.4 Protecting public facilities:

1. Noting that:

1. The resolution has been implemented, but not fully.

2. There are persistent acts of vandalism and destruction of schools and other public facilities throughout the country.

3. The ANC and its Subcommittees have not implemented plans or programmes systematically to lead society to take ownership of all public facilities and properties.

4. The BE sector in government is dealing systematically and regularly with acts of vandalism and disruptions, but that the ANC does not have a formal national plan to protect these from damage and destruction, especially in times of social upheavals.

2. And believing that:

1. It is the duty of the ANC to lead communities and society to take ownership of all public facilities and properties, and to always protect these from deliberate damage or destruction.

3. Therefore, resolve that:

1. The resolution of conference is reaffirmed.

2. The ANC considers it as its duty to lead society to take ownership of all public facilities and properties and to always protect these from deliberate damage or destruction.

3. The ANC seriously considers the possibility of declaring all public education institutions, including schools and Early Childhood Development (ECD) centres, as national key-points for the purpose of their security.

4.5.5 Skilling and educating the youth who are neither in employment nor in education and training:

1. Noting that:

1. Progress is being made in the creation of employment opportunities for the youth that are neither in employment nor in education and training (NEET).

2. The skilling and education of these youth must be prioritised as the main goal.

3. Collaboration with other sectors on this matter is weak.

2. Therefore, resolve that:

1. The resolution of conference is reaffirmed.

2. The Basic Education sector must focus more on skills development, education and training of the youth that are neither in employment nor in education and training (NEET).

4.5.6 Relocation of Early Childhood Development to the Department of Basic Education:

1. Noting that:

1. A lot of work was done, including putting systems in place to ensure that policies, laws and regulations are in place.

2. The transfer of the Early Childhood Development (ECD) from the Department of Social Development to the Department of Basic Education took place on 01 April 2022.

2. Therefore, resolve that:

1. ECD be recognised as a national priority.

2. The resolution of conference be considered as fully implemented.

3. The ANC Basic Education and Social Development sectors submit a combined report and activity plan to a joint sitting of relevant ANC NEC Subcommittees led by the Education, Health, Science and Technology (EHSTC) and the Social Transformation Committee (STC) for processing and forward submission to the ANC NEC with a view to urgent implementation and continuous monitoring and evaluation.

4.5.7 Optimisation of Early Childhood Development for all children, with special emphasis on children with special needs:

1. Noting that:

1. Poor progress has been made by Basic Education, Departments of Social Development and Health to optimise Early Childhood Development with great emphasis on children with special needs.

2. Therefore, resolve that:

1. The resolution of conference is reaffirmed.

2. A combined programme must be agreed upon by the ANC Basic Education, Health and Social Development sectors of the EHST Subcommittee and the STC for processing and forward submission to the ANC NEC.

3. The BE sector presents to a joint sitting of relevant ANC NEC Subcommittees led by the EHST and STC the said combined plan, programme with special focus on the coordination and integration of services focusing on children with special needs such as autism and other disabilities.

4.5.8 Dealing with inequities that exist between rural and urban education and the resourcing of village and township schools:

1. Noting that:

1. Poor progress has been made to comprehensively eradicate inequities that exist between rural and urban communities in the education sector.

2. Focus is mainly on providing teachers or educators to rural schools.

3. Resources that must be prioritised include infrastructure, which is made up of physical infrastructure, education-specific technologies including those used in laboratories and libraries, ICT and furniture, organisational development and human resources and quality assurance bodies.

4. The provision of services such as school transport; and basic services such as water, sanitation, electricity and ICT connectivity remains a challenge in rural areas.

5. The sector has not submitted to the ANC comprehensive plans and a detailed report on current deficits and required resources by schools in disadvantaged areas.

2. Therefore, resolve that:

1. The resolution of conference is reaffirmed.

2. The sector deals with this matter beyond the provision and retention of educators in rural communities.

3. The sector makes a deeper analysis of inequities between rural and urban education and review its plans and resources.

4. Teachers and learners in rural communities especially those using Multi Grade Teaching must be supported.

5. The sector submits to the ANC its plans, programmes, and progress reports on the accelerated resourcing of schools, with special focus on village and township schools to deal comprehensively with inequities in the education sector.

6. The programme includes greater focus on using various technologies, namely the 4IR and beyond, to bridge the urban-rural divide without moving or recruiting teachers from urban areas to work in rural communities.

4.5.9 Setting aside the resolution of the 52nd conference on making education an essential service:

1. Noting that:

1. The resolution has not been implemented.

2. The ANC has set aside its resolution of the 52nd ANC National Conference on making education an essential service.

3. The Subcommittee has not convened meeting of the ANC and its alliance partners to pursue a sustainable programme aimed at maintaining and sustaining good labour relations and reducing conflicts within the Basic Education sector.

4. The COVID-19 local epidemic has thrown back the challenge of “education as an essential service to all South Africans’, as teachers are amongst essential services workers that were prioritized during the 2020-2022 epidemic.

2. Therefore, resolve that:

1. The Subcommittee convene meetings urgently and lead the process of working with the ANC’s Alliance Partners to ensure that there is labour peace in the education sector.

2. This matter be revisited and/or clarified objectively by the ANC and all stakeholders; and that a report on this matter be submitted to the ANC NEC on or before 31 July 2023.

4.5.10 Adoption of the legislative framework to guide in addressing administrative lapses that result in interventions in terms of section 100 of the Constitution of the Republic of South Africa, 1996:

1. Noting that:

1. The resolution has not been fully implemented.

2. No progress has been made by the sector to put in place the legislative framework to guide in addressing administrative lapses in the basic education sector that result in interventions in terms of section 100 of the Constitution of the Republic of South Africa. Earlier reports from the said sector indicate that it believes that this is the mandate of COGTA.

3. The ANC has not received a formal report on this matter.

2. Therefore, resolve that:

1. The resolution of conference be reaffirmed.

2. The sector urgently commences with the legislative process directed by the resolution of conference.

3. A report on progress made be submitted to the ANC before 15 July 2023.

4.5.11 Implementation of sport, arts and culture programmes:

1. Noting that:

1. Good progress is being made in the implementation of programmes.

2. Various local, regional, provincial, national programmes are being implemented in sport, arts and culture.

3. There are no reports on programmes designed to institutionalise indigenous and traditional African music to promote Afrocentric values, culture and tradition.

2. Therefore, resolve that:

1. The resolution of conference be reaffirmed.

2. School Sport must be enhanced through identification of talent and channelling that through relevant sporting codes.

3. The sector resolves the impasse between Athletics South Africa (ASA) and South African Schools Athletics (SASA).

4. The sector establishes school-based or local research groups to involve learners and teachers in the documentation, preservation and promotion of local arts and cultural history, goods and services in school libraries and museums.

5. The BE-DSAC submit to the ANC joint plans on its work to establish systems aimed at the promotion and institutionalisation of indigenous African values, Ubuntu-Botho, music, culture, tradition and social cohesion.

4.5.12 The Presidential Remuneration Review Commission on remuneration and conditions of service for all employees in the Public Service and Public Entities:

1. Noting that:

1. No progress was made as the report of the Commission was not released in the first half of 2018, as directed by conference.

2. Problems that are related to the remuneration and conditions of service in government remain.

2. Therefore, resolve that:

1. The resolution of conference is rescinded, as it is not implementable.

2. The Subcommittee follow up this matter and table a report to the ANC NEC with recommendations of what is to be done to resolve problems related to remuneration and conditions of service.

3. Cabinet be directed to hold to account relevant government departments that were responsible for overseeing the work of the Commission which was not completed.

4.5.13 Improving literacy and numeracy:

1. Noting that:

1. A lot of progress has been made in literacy and numeracy since 1994.

2. The ANC has not received during this reporting period the account with data that indicates progress made to improve literacy and numeracy amongst learners.

2. Therefore, resolve that:

1. The resolution of conference is reaffirmed.

2. Numeracy and literacy amongst learners and communities must be translated into a Ministerial Priority Programme.

3. The Minister of Basic Education must ensure that government officials who are responsible for implementation of programmes designed to improve literacy and numeracy across the country implement the sector’s short-term and long-term plans with a greater sense of urgency to improve the literacy and numeracy levels of all learners using all resources including ICT and other education-specific technologies.

4. The sector improves teacher capacity and the resourcing of the programme with relevant Learner Teacher Support Material (LTSM).

5. The capacity of the School Management Team and District Curriculum Leadership to intensify this programme.

6. The Subcommittee submits a report to the ANC NEC urgently on progress made in the implementation of this resolution.

4.5.14 Boarding schools, technical schools, academies, and Schools of Excellence:

1. Noting that:

1. Twelve (12) out of twenty-four (24) boarding schools were completed thus far in the expansion of numbers of boarding schools.

2. The sector has not submitted a detailed report to the ANC on progress made in the establishment of technical schools, academies and Schools of Excellence.

2. Therefore, resolve that:

1. The resolution of conference is reaffirmed.

2. The Subcommittee facilitates a study and interaction with fraternal political parties and governments to learn and compare the structures, roles and functions of academies and Schools of Excellence for our country’s benefit.

3. The ANC notes with appreciation the introduction in 2019 of Marine Sciences as one of the subjects offered by the sector, ongoing work on the draft Aviation Curriculum and the framework for Vocational and Occupational disciplines.

4. The sector is directed to present to the ANC plans and programmes with cost estimates for the establishment of public schools for talented and specially gifted learners and technical high schools in every district.

5. The BE sector builds more boarding schools.

6. The BE sector urgently establishes academies and Schools of Excellence as directed.

7. There be adequate provision of boarding facilities and proper transport for learners with special educational needs.

8. Learners in boarding schools receive psycho-social support, where necessary.

4.5.15 Languages in the school curriculum:

1. Noting that:

1. The ANC has not received any progress report from the BE sector on the introduction in all schools, public and private, of a minimum of 3 languages into the curriculum wherein one is the indigenous African language of South Africa.

2. Good progress is being made by implementing the Incremental Introduction to African Languages (IIAL) programme.

3. The challenges of teacher capacity and the provision of LTSM for the project need to be resolved urgently.

2. Therefore, resolve that:

1. The resolution of conference is reaffirmed.

2. The implementation of Mother Tongue Bilingual Education up to Grade 12 is supported

3. The BE sector submits to the ANC plans and progress reports on the introduction in all schools, public and private, of a minimum of

3 languages into the curriculum wherein one is the indigenous African language of South Africa.

4.5.16 The establishment of a single and inclusive examination board for the NSC examinations:

1. Noting that:

1. Plans have been made and a draft concept document is being worked on, but the Board has not been established yet.

2. Challenges faced by the sector include the absence of the supporting legal framework and an integrated framework for assessments.

2. Therefore, resolve that:

1. The resolution of conference is reaffirmed.

2. The sector puts in place the necessary supporting legal framework and an integrated framework for assessments.

3. The Subcommittee follow up on the commitment made by the sector to urgently resume its work of establishing a single and all-inclusive examination board for the entire school system spanning the public and private sector.

4. The ANC NEC receive progress reports urgently.

4.5.17 Second chance opportunity programme for matriculants:

1. Noting that:

1. Good progress has been made in the implementation of this programme.

2. Learners who were upgrading their matric qualification have received good support.

3. The Framework for the Second Chance Matric Programme (SCMP) was finalised and the SCMP is being offered.

4. Provincial coordinators were appointed in all the nine (9) provinces, face-to-face centres were established, online and paper-based learner materials were distributed, and top-performing teachers have been appointed to teach after hours and over weekends.

5. The DBE is reconfiguring SCMP to cater for the NEET Group.

2. Therefore, resolve that:

1. That the resolution of conference is reaffirmed.

2. The sector continues to manage, monitor, and evaluate this project regularly and report to the ANC.

4.5.18 Strengthening of school health services:

1. Noting that:

1. Good progress has been made in strengthening school health services.

2. Nurses have not been deployed to schools to implement health plans as directed by conference.

2. Therefore, resolve that:

1. That the resolution of conference is reaffirmed.

2. The sector submits to the ANC NEC plans with cost estimates and a progress report on the provision of necessary human and other resources to strengthen school health services.

3. The report includes a reviewed service delivery model, funding, and mechanisms to track outcomes of referrals.

4. The ANC receives a detailed progress report from the ANC BE sector on the implementation by the DBE, DoH and DSD of the recommendations of the 2009 Teenage pregnancy in South Africa, with a specific focus on school-going learners and current interventions in the context of COVID-19.

5. The ANC supports government programs on care and support for teachers and learners, such as school patrols, to protect children going to and from school.

6. Comprehensive Sexuality Education in partnership with the Department of Health be strengthened.

7. Health screening programmes with special focus on eye health and hearing barriers be expanded and sustained.

4.5.19 School infrastructure:

1. Noting that:

1. The Basic Education infrastructure programme is not performing at its best.

2. The BE sector has not provided the ANC with details of delivery of infrastructure against targets.

3. The poor performance of infrastructure programmes and recurrent low expenditure have led to the decrease in budgetary allocations to provinces.

4.5.19.1.4 At the current pace of infrastructure delivery maintenance, the current backlog of school infrastructure will not be eradicated.

2. Therefore, resolve that:

1. The resolution of conference is reaffirmed.

2. The BE sector deals with all infrastructure delivery and maintenance backlogs swiftly and urgently.

3. The Subcommittee submit recommendations to the ANC NEC about building the capacity of the state and that of the DPWI to plan, deliver and maintain schools and other public infrastructure.

4. There must be effective and efficient use of infrastructure budgets and other resources with special focus on eradicating infrastructure backlogs.

5. The provision of funding for infrastructure for the promotion of school sports be prioritised.

6. Government ensures that rural roads and bridges that provides access to schools are repaired and maintained.

7. Where possible, preferential allocation of infrastructure maintenance contracts to local contractors and Small, Medium and Micro Enterprises (SMMEs) be promoted.

4.5.20 Learner transport provided to all learners who qualify:

1. Noting that:

1. The sector has not submitted to the ANC a detailed account on the state of learner transport including data on whether all qualifying learners are provided with reliable learner transport.

2. The Subcommittee noted the report of 2021 where it was stated that 616 726 out of 749 478 learners were transported to schools in the 3rd Quarter of 2020/21.

3. The sector prioritises learners with special education needs.

2 Therefore, resolve that:

1 That the resolution of conference is reaffirmed.

2. The ANC continue prioritizing scholar transport in its deliberations and actions to ensure that the service is improved continuously.

3. The BE sector submits regular reports to the NEC on this matter.

4.5.21 National School Nutrition Programme:

1. Noting that:

1. Progress is being made in providing nutritious meals to all learners in targeted schools.

2. The Department of Basic Education provides meals to 9 675 366 learners through the National School Nutrition Programme (NSNP).

3. Improved menu options on the NSNP include a breakfast for learners in targeted priority districts in poor and disadvantaged communities.

4. Cabinet has extended breakfast to a further 32 identified priority areas.

2. Therefore, resolve that:

1. The resolution of conference is reaffirmed.

2. The ANC Subcommittee and BE sector monitor the implementation and review of the National Food and Security Plan 2017–2022.

4.5.22 Schools for learners with special educational to be declared “No-Fee Schools”:

1. Noting that:

1. All schools for learners with special educational needs have been declared No-Fee Schools.

2. The challenge of inequity is expressed in the funding of No-Fee Schools below the nationally determined target amount, as is the case with Mpumalanga, KwaZulu-Natal and the Northern Cape.

2. Therefore, resolve that:

1. The resolution of conference is reaffirmed.

2. The ANC regularly monitor and evaluate the implementation of this resolution and research results on the study of current funding models to determine financial implications.

4.6 Higher Education and Training:

4.6.1 The funding of higher education:

1. Noting that:

1. There are at times problems of delays in the payment of funds to students.

2. The is widespread abuse of the National Students Financial Assistance Scheme (NSFAS) money.

3. The student funding model is recognised as a burning platform.

2. Therefore, resolve that:

1. The resolution of conference is reaffirmed.

2. The Subcommittee on EHST studies the cost-effectiveness of the NSFAS and reports to the ANC NEC urgently.

3. The Subcommittee reviews and clarifies the meaning of “a comprehensive student funding model”.

4. A comprehensive student funding model must be developed, adopted, and implemented.

5. The Subcommittee reviews the appropriateness of giving financial assistance to students beyond their first undergraduate qualification, namely the first diploma or degree and reports to the ANC NEC.

6. The problem of delays in the payment of funds to students must be resolved urgently whenever that occurs.

7. The capacity of ANC branches must be increased to be able to participate in the monitoring of the abuse of financial assistance given to students in colleges and universities. The capacity of ANC branches must be increased to be able to participate in the monitoring of this abuse.

8. The Subcommittee reviews the current policy of “Free higher education for the poor and the ‘missing middle’!” in the context of the ideal of “Free education for all!” as enshrined in the 1943 African Claims, the 1955 Freedom Charter and the 1962 SACP Programme of Action: The Road to South African Freedom and the Reconstruction and Development Programme (RDP).

4.6.2 The provision of additional academic and psycho-social support to bursary holders and recipients of financial assistance from the state to increase their chances of success:

1. Noting that:

1. Good progress has been made with implementation.

2. In 2019, Higher Health was established to implement a comprehensive and integrated programme to students across all colleges and universities.

2. Therefore, resolve that:

1. The resolution of conference is reaffirmed.

2. All bursary holders and recipients of financial assistance from the state for tertiary education undergo a compulsory needs analysis to identify those who need support.

3. Additional academic ad psycho-social support is given to only those who need it.

4.6.3 Adoption of a framework for regulating higher education fees in colleges and universities:

1. Noting that:

1. The higher education and training sector has not adopted the framework for regulating higher education fees in colleges and universities as directed by the 2015 ANC National General Council (NGC), despite the intense contestations by stakeholders and the need for meaningful consultations.

2. A draft Regulation Framework has been developed, but it has not been distributed for comments and consultation.

2. Therefore, resolve that:

1. The framework for regulating higher education fees in colleges and universities must be finalised, adopted and implemented as a matter of urgency before 31 December 2023.

4.6.4 The redesign of the funding formula for colleges and universities:

1. Noting that:

1. The resolution of conference has not been fully implemented.

2. The revised National Norms and Standards for Funding Technical and Vocational Education and Training Colleges (NNSF-TVET), which includes changes in new programme types and changes the funding mechanism for TVET college, has been published in the Government Gazette with effective retrospective implementation date of 1 April 2021.

2. Therefore, resolve that:

1. The resolution of conference be reaffirmed.

2. The funding formula for the college sector, including the Community Education and Training Colleges (CETCs), TVETs, Nursing Colleges, Agricultural Colleges and similar colleges must be finalised urgently on or before 31 December 2023.

3. The redesign of the funding formula for universities must be reviewed urgently and be presented to the ANC NEC for consideration, decision and resolution.

4.6.5 Support for increased student accommodation:

1. Noting that:

1. The Higher Education and Training sector reported that Department of Human Settlements has allocated funds for student accommodation.

2. The sector is collaborating with the National Treasury, the Development Bank of South Africa (DBSA) and other state agencies on the Student Housing Infrastructure Programme (SHIP) to fast-track issues of student accommodation.

3. The ANC NEC has not received a report on the above.

2. Therefore, resolve that:

1. The resolution of conference be reaffirmed.

2. The HET urgently submit to the Subcommittee a report on the support for increased student accommodation for consideration and forward submission to the ANC NEC.

3. The DHET and DHS ensure that student villages are integrated into sustainable human settlements in villages, towns, and cities.

4.6.6 Fast tracking the implementation of the Central Application Service:

1. Noting that:

1. The HET sector has not implemented the CAS in universities by March 2018 and the full implementation across the PSET system by 2022 as directed by conference.

2. The CAS pilot was launched on 1 March 2022.

3. The urgent need for the CAS remains.

2. Therefore, resolve that:

1. The resolution on the Central Application Service (CAS) be reaffirmed.

2. The ANC HET sector must ensure that this project is prioritised for completion in colleges and universities by 31 December 2023.

4.6.7 Sector Education and Training Authorities:

1. Noting that:

1. The main purpose of the SETAs is not to train students, but to facilitate training through the funding of training programmes run by training institutions and various industries.

2. Progress was made in the SETA sector in that the National Skills Development Plan (NSDP) and the Changing SETA Landscape were approved.

3. Good progress was made in the realignment of the Sector Education and Training Authorities (SETA) landscape.

4. The role of both state and private sector by granting access to the workplace for experiential learners remains critical for the success of the work of the SETAs.

5. Collaboration between the SETAs, the public sector and the private sector has not resulted in making all graduates from the PSET system work-ready at the time of completion of their studies.

2. Therefore, resolve that:

1. The resolution of conference is reaffirmed.

2. The HET sector develops a system with goals and targets to place students, especially all college students, in Work Integrated Learning (WIL) programmes throughout their period of studies to improve employability with productivity in relevant industries at the time of graduation.

4.6.8 The College sector in the Post-School Education and Training System:

1. Noting that:

1. The reports of the HET sector in the ANC and government do not provide any information on progress made to clarify the nature and role of the entire college sector.

2. This sector comprises of Community Education and Training (CET) colleges, Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) colleges and other colleges for specialised purposes such as agriculture, nursing, emergency care, policing and teaching.

2. Therefore, resolve that:

1. The resolution of the 54th national conference is reaffirmed.

2. The NCV (Primary Health) course and qualification be terminated.

3. The sector provides the ANC with report that has a clear articulation of the structure and function of the HET skills development platform and articulations between schools, colleges, and universities by 30 September 2023.

4.6.9 Making sufficient resources available to increase infrastructure, lecturer training, bursaries, access, and curriculum transformation in the college sector:

1 Noting that:

1. Progress has not been made to increase infrastructure, lecturer training, bursaries, access and curriculum transformation in the college sector.

2. The HET continues to exclude all other types of colleges such as Emergency Medical Service, nursing, teacher training and agricultural colleges in its plans and work.

3. Despite the R2.991 billion additional funding through the TVET Capital Infrastructure Efficiency Grant from 2018-2019 to 31 March 2022, funding is insufficient for the sector to expand the college sector as directed by this resolution.

4. This additional funding was only for infrastructure repairs of core teaching and learning facilities.

2. Therefore, resolve that:

1. The resolution of conference including the target of 1 million enrolments in TVET colleges by 2030 is reaffirmed.

2. The HET and the national Cabinet prioritise the provision of adequate resources and the introduction of appropriate curricula in the college sector to enable it to achieve its objective of growth to its 2030 goals and target to support the economy of our country.

4.6.10 Alignment by the HET and BE sectors of technical and vocational offerings in schools and colleges:

1. Noting that:

1. Little progress has been made by the HET and BE sectors to align technical and vocational offerings in schools and colleges.

2. There appears to be no sense of urgency amongst senior civil servants as chief implementers to attain the goals of this resolution.

2. Therefore, resolve that:

1. The resolution of conference is reaffirmed.

2. The Ministers in charge of this sector make this matter a priority.

3. The Ministers in charge of this sector report to the Subcommittee regularly on this matter as one of the priority ministerial programmes.

4.6.11 Articulation within the PSET sector:

1. Noting that:

1. Good progress is being made in the implementation of this resolution of conference.

2. The HET sector has evaluated the implementation of National Qualification Framework to determine how TVET colleges and universities are articulating students within and between programmes and institutions.

3. There is a challenge of different practices and approaches by individual institutions.

2. Therefore, resolve that:

1. The HET report regularly on progress being made in its implementation of the model to standardise programme articulation of college programmes into university programmes in the context of clear career paths in various professions and industries.

4.6.12 Offering in colleges qualifications for postGrade 12 entrants on Levels 5 and 6:

1. Noting that:

1. Some TVET colleges are offering Level 5 Higher Certificates in partnership with universities.

2. Therefore, resolve that:

1. The resolution of the 54th national conference is reaffirmed.

2. That this matter must be clarified with the view to accepting this resolution as having been achieved.

4.6.13 Conducting the cost-effectiveness and appropriateness of offering students mid-level courses at universities instead of colleges:

1. Noting that:

1. The sector has not provided the ANC with the assessment of progress made in doing research on this matter.

2. It has not reported on whether it has determined where such courses would best be delivered.

2. Therefore, resolve that:

1. The resolution of the 54th national conference be reaffirmed.

2. The sector submits urgently to the Subcommittee a report to this effect by 31 January 2023.

4.6.14 Conducting an audit of skills in colleges to determine competencies of educators and support staff:

1. Noting that:

1. The audit of skills in colleges to determine competencies of educators and support staff has not been done.

2. The said audit is still in its planning phase.

2. Therefore, resolve that:

1. That the resolution of conference is reaffirmed.

2. The PSET sector starts with its comprehensive skills audit on or before 31 January 2023.

4.6.15 Expansion of and resources for the college sector:

1. Noting that:

1. The ANC has not received any report or plans on the expansion and adequate funding of the college sector.

2. The ANC has noted that the expansion by 610 000 instead of 2.5 million new admissions by 2013 is due to factors such as inadequate funding.

2. Therefore, resolve that:

1. The resolution is reaffirmed.

2. New targets and dates be determined.

3. A plan with cost estimates on the expansion of the comprehensive college sector excluding those in the military and law enforcement agencies be presented to the ANC, be adopted, and be implemented in government.

4.6.16 The programmes of TVET colleges must respond to skills needs and unemployment:

1. Noting that:

1. The ANC has not received a comprehensive review of all programmes of public and private colleges to ensure that they respond to the skills needs of our economy and our country.

2. The DHET has not provided details of its collaboration with industry associations to respond to skills needs and unemployment.

2. Therefore, resolve that:

1. The resolution of the 54th national conference is reaffirmed.

2. The ANC receive a comprehensive report that covers all programmes of the private and public sector in the context of this resolution with the view of increasing the employability of all college graduates.

4.6.17 Colleges must foster partnerships with universities of technology and various industries for work experience for both lecturers and students:

1. Noting that:

1. Little progress was made to ensure that Work Integrated Learning (WIL) is compulsory in undergraduate education and training, as directed.

2. The HET sector has not institutionalised systematic attachments and active placement of students in companies in various industries from first year to the last year of training.

3. However, Work Integrated Learning (WIL) in colleges has gained traction through support from the National Skills Fund (NSF).

4. The placement of students for work experience is now being tracked as a key output in colleges.

2. Therefore, resolve that:

1. The resolution of conference is reaffirmed.

2. The DHET must ensure that it changes from the current practice of “Practical work and gaining experience after graduation” to “Work Integrated Learning (WIL) during years of education and training”.

3. Lecturers in colleges benefit from structured constant exposure to work in relevant industries.

4.6.18 Greater focus on education and training in social sciences:

1. Noting that:

1. Progress has been made in the pursuit of education and training in social sciences and humanities.

2. Therefore, resolve that:

1. The resolution of conference is reaffirmed.

2. The HET sector submits plans, programmes, and progress report to the ANC on the work that is being done to make the education and training of students in humanities and social sciences a priority.

3. The HET sector submits a progress report to the ANC on initiatives that are being pursued to improve lecturer competencies and capacity to drive improvement programmes in these areas by 31 January 2023.

4. Colleges and universities must continue prioritising science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM), but also focus on education and training in the social sciences.

4.6.19 Institutional autonomy:

1. Noting that:

1. South Africa has not made progress on institutional autonomy of universities mainly due to lack of cooperation by various institutions and stakeholders.

2. The ANC has not received any report from the HET sector on its enforcement of legislation on institutional autonomy for universities.

2 Therefore, resolve that:

1. The resolution of conference is reaffirmed.

2. The DHET immediately submits a report on the implementation of current legislation on institutional autonomy and the enforcement thereof.

4.6.20 People’s Education for People’s Power:

1. Noting that:

1. No progress has been made to position the ANC as a thought leader on the broader ideological and political issue of decolonisation of education and training.

2. Therefore, resolve that:

1. The resolution of conference is reaffirmed.

2. The DHET must submit urgently to the ANC concrete plans, programmes and a progress report on the decolonisation of education and training in South Africa.

4.6.21 Increasing the retirement age of professionals and academics:

1. Noting that:

1. The retirement age of workers with scarce skills, professionals across all sectors and academics has not been increased as directed by conference.

2. The ANC has not received a report on whether this resolution has been translated into government policy, and what progress has been made in its implementation across government.

2. Therefore, resolve that:

1. The resolution of conference is reaffirmed.

2. The national Cabinet formally translate this into government policy and implement it throughout government departments, statutory bodies, and State-Owned Companies.

4.6.22 Improving the alignment between college and university programmes to the requirements for employment:

1. Noting that:

1. There is substantial work being done on this through the University Capacity Development Programme (UCDP).

2. The HET has not reported to the ANC on its implementation of the resolution of conference which makes it compulsory for colleges and universities to obtain concurrence and approval from relevant ministries to offer any course, especially in the health sector.

2 Therefore, resolve that:

1. The resolution of conference is reaffirmed.

2. The HET sector must immediately implement this resolution and submits plans, programmes and a progress report on the work that is being done in the college sector to improve the alignment between college and university programmes to the meet the needs of society and requirements for employment, with special focus on agricultural, nursing, teacher training and emergency medical care colleges.

3. The HET sector and the BE sector collaborate to identify and terminate courses, offerings and qualifications such as the NCV(Health) that disadvantage trainees and leave them at the level of NSC after three

(3) years of further education and training post-NSC.

4.6.23 Work-readiness of graduates and diplomates:

1. Noting that:

1. No progress has been made in ensuring that graduates from colleges and universities are work-ready on the day of their graduation.

2. No data was provided on the enforcement by colleges and Universities of Technology of Work Integrated Learning (WIL) from the first year of studies.

3. The Entrepreneurship Development in Higher Education Programme (EDHE) is being implemented to cultivate the entrepreneurial mind-set and promote self-employment after graduation.

2. Therefore, resolve that:

1. The resolution of conference is reaffirmed.

2. The HET must submit a report on progress that is being made to ensure that graduates from South African colleges and universities are work-ready, fully proficient, competent and productive on graduation day with no need for employers to require that they get additional work experience before being offered full-time employment on probation.

4.6.24 The establishment of specialized colleges and universities in metropolitan municipalities:

1. Noting that:

1. No progress has been made in the establishment of specialized colleges and universities in metropolitan municipalities.

2. The ANC has noted the announcement made of plans to establish a university of science and innovation in Ekurhuleni and a crime detection university in Hammanskraal.

3. The sector will urgently submit a report on this matter.

2. Therefore, resolve that:

1. That the ANC re-endorses the resolution of conference; and that the ANC directs the HET to submit a copy of policies, plans, programmes that have been put into action and a progress report to ensure that specialised colleges and universities are established in specific metropolitan municipalities as per this resolution and directives.

4.6.25 Ensuring adequate supply and replacement of teachers:

1. Noting that:

1. No progress has been made in the auditing of teachers for the purpose of workforce or human capital planning and development to guarantee adequate supply and replacement.

2. The ANC has not received the Teacher Supply and Demand Study that has been completed and was due for submission in May 2021.

2. Therefore, resolve that:

1. The resolution of conference is reaffirmed.

2. The Subcommittee to receive and evaluate the report and submit recommendations to the NEC by 31 January 2023.

4.6.26 Holding members of college and university councils accountable:

1. Noting that:

1. Progress has been made in holding members of college and university councils accountable.

2. The DHET monitors the compliance of college governance quarterly.

2. Therefore, resolve that:

1. The resolution of conference is reaffirmed.

2. The HET must finalise and adopt the draft Governance Standard Regulation designed for monitoring and evaluation of councils

3. The HET reports quarterly to the ANC NEC on the monitoring and evaluation of college and university councils.

4.6.27 Funding commitments of the NDP 2030:

1. This resolution was implemented fully and remains work in progress.

4.7 Health:

4.7.1 National Health Insurance and Health Financing:

1. Noting that:

1. Progress is being made in the law-making process towards the NHI Act.

2. The COVID-19 pandemic resulted in an 18-month delay in the processing of the Bill.

2. Therefore, resolve that:

1. The resolutions on the National Health Insurance (NHI) are reaffirmed.

2. The resolution on the NHI, which states that the implementation of the NHI remains a priority of government, is reaffirmed.

3. All branches, regions, RECs, PECs and the relevant PEC and NEC Subcommittees to embark on mass education and mobilisation to support the passage of the bill into law.

4. ANC lawmakers, namely members of Parliament and Provincial Legislatures, are hereby directed to expedite the passage of the NHI Bill through parliament.

5. Monitoring and evaluation mechanisms must be put in place by the government to provide reports on all provinces’ state of readiness for the implementation of the National Health Insurance (NHI), as the NHI Bill moves through the law-making process.

4.7.2 On health budget allocations and population movements:

1. Noting that:

1. The government has not implemented the resolution of conference on providing solutions that ensure that the health budget allocation takes account of population movements.

2. This includes reducing the financial burden on the National Health System that is caused by undocumented and illegal migrants from other countries.

2. Therefore, resolve that:

1. Resolutions on internal migrants, refugees and various categories of foreign immigrants accessing health services in South Africa are reaffirmed.

2. In its work of developing plans to mitigate population movement, the Department of Health first study the impact of migration and population movement in the country on health facilities in different locations to provide healthcare services that meet the demand of the area.

3. Cabinet must ensure that this problem is completely resolved by 31 December 2023 through the work of relevant government departments and in collaboration with multilateral bodies responsible for the welfare of refugees and migrants.

4.7.3 Improving the management of the National Health System:

1. Noting that:

1. The public health sector continues to be plagued by five (5) major issues namely management, human resources, procurement and supply chain systems, financial management and infrastructure maintenance.

2. Several steps have been undertaken to address all these challenges.

3. The main challenges are leadership, management and the underfunding of the health sector.

4. Underfunding and budget shortfalls, which have been the subjects of continuous engagements with the National and Provincial Treasuries were exacerbated by budget cuts over a long period up to the MTEF period ending 2022-2023.

2. Therefore, resolve that:

1. Previous resolutions on the management, leadership and underfunding of the National Health System are reaffirmed.

2. The problems of management, human resources, procurement and supply chain systems, financial management and infrastructure maintenance in the health sector be prioritised immediately for resolution at every level of the National Health System.

3. That the ANC NEC receive, through the Subcommittee, quarterly reports from the Minister of Health on these critical matters.

4.7.4 Medical malpractice, medical insurance, and litigation:

1. Noting that:

1. The ANC NEC has not received any report from the health sector on the implementation of this resolution.

2. Therefore, resolve that:

1 The health sector continuously strengthens measures to improve the quality of care delivered by health practitioners in the public and private sector.

2. The health sector reports regularly to the ANC on progress being made to decrease litigation and medico-legal hazards and to curb high costs of medical insurance and litigation against medical malpractice.

3. Because of escalating Medico-legal claims against the state, parliament expedite the passage of State Liability Amendment Bill.

4.7.5 Human resources for health: Planning, training and development and management including the Nelson Mandela-Fidel Castro Health Collaboration and the expansion of the health professionals training platforms in South Africa:

1. Noting that:

1. The South Africa-Cuba Cooperation in the fields of Public Health and Medical Sciences, also known as the Nelson Mandela-Fidel Castro (NMFC) Health Collaboration, is a programme of cooperation in four

(4) areas, namely the recruitment of medical doctors and lecturers from the Republic of Cuba, the training of South African medical students and postgraduates in the Republic of Cuba, the exploration of possible mutual interests in the fields of bio-technology production and the development of pharmaceuticals and any other field of scientific research; and any other program or activity that may be mutually agreed upon between South Africa and Cuba.

2. The resolution, which directed the Subcommittee and the ANC and government health sectors to assess the NMFC Health Collaboration in the light of the expansion of the health professionals training platforms in South Africa, has not been implemented.

3. However, the government has been assessing this programme on a continuous basis.

4. The ANC has neither assessed independently nor received from government a report on the NMFC Health Collaboration and the expansion of the health professionals training platforms in South Africa.

2. Therefore, resolve that:

1. Conference re-endorses the resolution on the Nelson Mandela-Fidel Castro Health Collaboration (NMFCH) in the context of the country’s Skills Revolution.

2. All areas of the South Africa-Cuba Collaboration including the SA-Cuba agreement on Public Health and Medical Sciences be further explored.

3. The elements of solidarity between the ANC and Cuba, and South Africa with Cuba be maintained, also in the national human resources plan.

4. Human Resource Planning:

1. Health sciences training, especially the training of medical personnel or doctors, must be discussed and reviewed.

2. Nursing education and training must be reviewed and increased to meet the needs of our country.

3. Nursing education must be made excellent and accessible to all.

4. The selection into the nursing program must focus on recruiting candidate student from poor, needy and child-headed households to address poverty and unemployment.

5. The structure and size of the nursing training institutions must be reviewed.

6. The Nelson Mandela-Fidel Castro Health Collaboration must be assessed with a view to continue with the South Africa-Cuba Collaboration.

5. Training and Human Resource Development:

1. The Cuban model of medical training and the structure and configuration of its medical schools per university must be studied carefully and lessons learnt from Cuba and similar countries must be used to South Africa’s advantage

2. The health professionals training platform in South Africa must be expanded.

3. The programme of medical training, which is a component of the NMFCHC, and its funding must be centralised.

4. The reaffirmation is in the context of the Skills Revolution.

5. A sustainable internal skills development platform and a fully-fledged external skills incubator under the Department of Higher Education, Science and Innovation in collaboration with the Department of Health be established.

6. The reaffirmation includes the sectors setting up a system of registration to keep the record of all students who are training in foreign institutions and countries.

7. The blue economy and related sectors be used to develop skills especially in the African communities to deal with unemployment.

8. The element of solidarity between the ANC and Cuba, and South Africa with Cuba be maintained in the human resources development plan.

9. The Department of Health and HET must work together to expand health faculties in universities and nursing colleges as a strategy to increase the number of health human resources to reduce the skills shortage gap in the country’s health system.

10. Nursing colleges be migrated or integrated into Department of Higher Education and Training with continued involvement of the Department of Health.

11. Support for the strengthening of the Limpopo academic hospital, including the provision of adequate financial and human resources, must be done in earnest, as resolved in earlier conferences. Similarly, the Walter Sisulu University (WUS) Medical School and the Health Science Faculty and the Nelson Mandela Academic Hospital must be prioritised.

6. Human Resource Management:

1. Health management delegations and budgets must be decentralised to hospital level.

2. The Occupation Specific Dispensation (OSD) for public sector healthcare workers must be reviewed.

3. The ANC and government health policies include integration of Community Health Workers.

4. Retired health professionals such as doctors, nurses, dentists and physiotherapists must be utilised primarily for mentoring.

4.7.6 Coordinating and promoting research and development in Traditional Medicine products and practices:

1. Noting that:

1. There is poor progress in the implementation of resolutions of conferences that direct members to prioritise traditional medicine research and those that call for support for provincial district and local structures of African traditional health practitioners.

2. Therefore, resolve that:

1. The resolution of conference is reaffirmed.

2. The state must, on behalf of the traditional medicine sector, be the custodian of the Intellectual Property (IP) related to African Traditional medicines.

3. The IP of traditional medicines be protected from interested parties such as the international pharmaceutical giants.

4. A study must be undertaken for South Africa to learn from other countries such as China, India, and other BRICS members, on how these countries have protected and developed their traditional medicines, pharmaceuticals and practices and implement that for the benefit of South Africans.

4.7.7 Healthy lifestyle:

1. Noting that:

1. The ANC NEC has not received any report from the health sector on the implementation of this resolution.

2. Therefore, resolve that:

1. The resolution of conference is reaffirmed.

2. The health sector reports urgently to the ANC NEC on the implementation of this resolution, particularly on the establishment of the Health Promotion Commission, provision of amenities and the intensification of preventative, promotive and wellness programmes.

4.7.8 Strengthening school health services:

1. Noting that:

1. This programme is being implemented by the DBE in collaboration with the Department of Health.

2. Therefore, resolve that:

1. The health sector implements together with relevant sectors the resolution that deals with school health services.

2. School health services must be strengthened, and nurses must be deployed to schools to implement health plans.

4.7.9 Accelerated Infrastructure Delivery for Health:

1. Noting that:

1. This resolution on Accelerated Infrastructure delivery has been prioritised by the Ministry.

2. The sector is currently using the Infrastructure Unit System Support (IUSS) Gazetted Guidelines whose processes are aligned with those of ASIDI and one of the initiatives of the DOH and CSIR.

3. One of the challenges is the lack of capacity of the Department of Public Works and Infrastructure to deliver and maintain health infrastructure.

2. Therefore, resolve that:

1. The health sector submits to the ANC NEC the Accelerated Health Facilities Infrastructure Delivery Initiative (AHFIDI) or equivalent.

2. The health, at the operational level and through discussions with the National Treasury, the issue of centralization of funding of infrastructure projects in the departmental Infrastructure Fund.

3. Health infrastructure budgets must be moved from Department of Public Works and Infrastructure to the Department of Health and its facilities.

4. The capacity and role of and collaboration with the Department of Public Works and Infrastructure be reviewed.

5. Cabinet must direct law enforcement agencies to identify, arrest and eliminate criminals and criminal syndicates and their civil service enablers that operate in the public sector where some demand and award contracts through corrupt means.

4.7.10 Elimination of vaccine-preventable diseases:

1. Noting that:

1. South Africa is currently experiencing a wave of measles outbreak.

2. The health sector has not submitted a plan and a report to the ANC on its programmes to eliminate all vaccine-preventable diseases which have existing vaccines with proven efficacy on or before 2027.

3. However, the health sector has made progress on its programmes to eliminate all vaccine-preventable diseases which have existing vaccines with proven efficacy on or before 2027.

4. It continues to focus on reducing the burden of vaccine preventable diseases.

5. Several public and private sector partners are collaborating in the field of vaccinology including South Africa’s participation in the BRICS Vaccine Research and Development Centre.

2. Therefore, resolve that:

1. The Subcommittee must regularly update the ANC NEC on the implementation of this policy, particularly progress against vaccine-preventable diseases and their elimination by 2027 using existing vaccines with proven efficacy.

2. The health sector is directed to regularly update the ANC NEC through the Subcommittee on the BRICS collaborations and local efforts to increase outputs on vaccine research and development and self-sufficiency with pharmaceuticals, therapeutics, and vaccines.

4.7.11 Revitalisation of military health facilities:

1. Noting that:

1. This resolution which addresses matters falling under the jurisdiction of the Department of Defence (DoD) and not under the Ministry and Department of Health has not been implemented.

2. The Subcommittee has not followed up these matters with the ANC NEC Subcommittee on Peace and Stability in line with the resolutions of the 54th National Conference and previous conferences.

2. Therefore, resolve that:

1. This resolution is reaffirmed.

2. The military health, namely the Department of Defence (DoD) and the South African Military Health Services (SAMHS), and civilian health services through the National Department of Health must collaborate in line with previous resolutions of conference.

3. This matter must be prioritised, in the context of the 2017 conference resolution and resolutions of conferences that preceded this, in a well-coordinated fashion and without compromising the combat‐ readiness of the SAMHS.

4. The Subcommittee together with the ANC NEC Subcommittee on Peace and Stability report quarterly to the NEC on progress made.

5. Conclusion:

5.1 Noting that:

5.1.1 Resolutions of conference are directives to the membership of the ANC.

5.1.2 Resolutions of conference must be implemented with urgency to improve the lives of all South Africans.

5.2 Therefore, resolve that:

5.2.1 The ANC NEC Subcommittee on Education, Health, Science and Technology must ensure that the report goes back to every branch of the ANC as for feedback from conference and for urgent implementation or monitoring of implementation by those deployed in government and various institutions at home and abroad.

Produced by the ANC Department of Information and Publicity, 3 March 2023