Basic Education Minister highlights fiscal constraints in response to Ramaphosa’s SONA

Basic Education Minister Siviwe Gwarube has sung praises for President Cyril Ramaphosa’s State of the Nation Address (SONA). Basic Education Minister Siviwe Gwarube has praised President Cyril Ramaphosa’s recent State of the Nation Address (SONA), while acknowledging ongoing challenges within her department, including severe fiscal constraints. Speaking on Wednesday during a joint sitting of the National Assembly and the National Council of Provinces, Gwarube said last week’s SONA signalled a new chapter for South Africa, marked by a shared commitment to delivery, stability and progress.

“The Government of National Unity is demonstrating that it is possible to work across political lines to stabilise the country, grow the economy and create jobs,” she said. “It is possible to place the people at the heart of what we do and to commit ourselves to serving those who have waited too long for change.” The debate on Ramaphosa’s address began on Tuesday and continues, with the president expected to reply on Thursday at 2pm. TheDemocratic Alliance(DA) is the largest party in the Government of National Unity, which is led by the ANC.