Statement by Cameron Dugmore, MEC for Education in the Western Cape

Education MEC Cameron Dugmore has welcomed the allocation of R9-billion for education that Finance MEC Lynn Brown today unveiled in her Provincial Budget Speech. It means the Western Cape Education Department's budget has increased by R1.3bn and will continue to grow over the next three years.

Said MEC Dugmore: "I welcome the allocation and also the challenge that we utilize funds to ensure quality outcomes throughout the system.

"However the fact that the negotiations for the occupation specific dispensation (OSD) have not been concluded, leaves a level of uncertainty for the coming financial year. The costs to the province still need to be quantified.

"We face immediate pressures regarding infrastructure and may be forced to approach treasury to utilize funds from the outer medium term expenditure framework year to meet these needs within the 20008/09 financial year.

"Every school, educator, principal, learner, parent and every official must rise to the challenge and produce quality outcomes. Resources are critical but attitude, passion and commitment are needed to turn the situation around."

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

Visit our website: http://wced.wcape.gov.za

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