Gauteng learners are being denied the opportunity to learn Coding and Robotics, Computer applications technology and Information Technology (IT) due to a massive shortage of teachers.
This is unacceptable as learners are being left out in preparation for future workplaces that are increasingly reliant on new technology.
There is a shortage of 300 Coding and Robotics teachers, 36 teachers for Information Technology and 35 for Computer Applications Technology.
This information was revealed by the Gauteng MEC for Education, Matome Chiloane, in a written reply to the Democratic Alliance’s questions tabled in the Gauteng Provincial Legislature (GPL). This means that Gauteng is not complying with the national education policy, which states that teaching coding to pupils should begin in Grade R.
If Premier Lesufi is serious about growing the technology workforce in Gauteng, his government must start investing in infrastructure gaps and teacher shortages. The digital economy continues to accelerate at an ever-increasing speed while Gauteng learners are left behind. Many schools do not have computers, electricity, and internet connections in their classrooms, which makes it impossible to offer IT lessons.
With nearly half of all teachers expected to retire over the next decade, drastic action should be taken to ensure that critical subjects are not negatively affected and that learners are prepared for an ever-changing economy.
A DA-led Gauteng Provincial Government would prioritise investing in school infrastructure, resources, and teachers to ensure that all schools across the province learn IT and are equipped for future workplaces. We will also prioritise the speedy roll-out of the Gauteng Broad Band Network to ensure all schools are connected to the internet.