ACDP calls on the departments of Higher and Basic Education to work together on relevant programs to promote Technical Schools as institutions of choice for learners

MEDIA RELEASE
Cheryllyn Dudley MP
13th August 2013

ACDP calls on the departments of Higher and Basic Education to work together on relevant programs to promote Technical Schools as institutions of choice for learners

•        welcomes measures to improve enrolment numbers at Technical High schools resulting from Ministerial Task Team set up to look at challenges

“The ACDP welcomes measures to improve enrolment numbers at Technical High schools which have been struggling to attract learners”, ACDP MP Cheryllyn Dudley said today. The enrolment figures in 2007 were at 119 000 and in 2013 it is 45 000.

A Ministerial Task Team set up to look at the challenges facing technical schools has drafted a Curriculum Assessment Policy Statement (CAPS) for Technical Schools which will allow for specialization in Civil Technology, Electrical Technology and Mechanical Technology - supported by Technical Mathematics, Technical Science and the current Engineering  Graphics and Design.

Before the subjects are introduced, an audit of available resources i.e. infrastructure, equipment and educator competence will be done – as well as an assessment of financial implications for implementation and sustainability.

“Continuous Professional Development of educators must ensure competent teaching and skills development, and collaboration with business and industry professional bodies, Higher Education Institution sector, organized labour and statutory bodies must be prioritized”.
The ACDP calls on the departments of Higher and Basic Education to work together on relevant programs to promote Technical Schools as institutions of choice for learners.