Letters | Policy review needed

In his recent State of the Nation Address, President Cyril Ramaphosa announced that 10000 labour inspectors would be deployed to ensure compliance with employment regulations relating to foreign nationals. He further reaffirmed that foreign children residing in South Africa may not be denied access to education or excluded from public institutions. While the commitment to upholding children’s right to education is commendable, a practical concern arises from this pronouncement.

If stricter enforcement results in foreign parents losing their jobs or being unable to secure employment, how will they afford essential school-related expenses such as fees, transportation, uniforms, stationery and meals during school hours? This policy tension warrants review to ensure that enforcement measures do not inadvertently disadvantage vulnerable children or impose undue pressure on educational institutions and indigent local communities. Beyond these education-related costs, how will they manage to cover basic necessities and daily household needs?