THE WESTERN CAPE’s SURVEY to implement its Learner Tracking System will not be used to discriminate against anyone who wishes not to complete a question on race.

This assurance was given by Western Cape Education MEC Cameron Dugmore after a meeting yesterday with trade union Solidarity Chief Executive Officer Kallie Kriel and Deputy General Secretary Dirk Herman.

In a meeting with the MEC, Solidarity said it was approached by some of their members to express concern over the racial classification of a survey of the Western Cape Education Department (WCED).

They said their members were uncomfortable with completing the question on race, and felt threatened that it would be used to discriminate against their children or the schools concerned.

In his response, MEC Dugmore reiterated that the WCED collects information of all kinds for statistical purposes, to inform planning and to measure progress towards achieving its objectives.

"These objectives include transformation, to ensure access, redress and equity in the way we provide education. We can only achieve these objectives if we have the information we need for planning purposes", said MEC Dugmore.

"We have to have a system that monitors learner numbers and movements reliably, and allocate resources according to these numbers, such as teaching posts and norms and standards funding.

"In no way will anyone be forced to complete the question on race, or discriminated against if he/she chooses not to," said MEC Dugmore. He expressed satisfaction with the progress of the implementation of the system and that the vast majority of parents understand the need for the surveys.

The representatives from Solidarity expressed appreciation for the opportunity to discuss the matter with MEC Dugmore, and were happy with the assurance that race is not a criteria for the allocation of resources, but rather poverty indicators.

The union also welcomed the use of the Learner Tracking System, in so far as it is to be used to assist the department in upgrading the skills profile of the province and the country.

Both parties committed themselves to continuous communication with a view to build a constructive relationship.

For further enquiries, contact Gert Witbooi 082 550 3938, Kallie Kriel 082 441 5073, or Dirk Herman 082 461 8485.

For enquiries, contact Gert Witbooi: 082 550 3938, or gwitbooi@pgwc.gov.za.