In January 2023, President Cyril Ramaphosa addressed the Basic Education Sector Lekgotla, emphasizing the critical role of education in South Africa's development. He stated:

"Basic education is the foundation of a nation’s development, progress and prosperity."

President Ramaphosa highlighted the constitutional commitment to establish a society rooted in democratic values, social justice, and human rights, asserting that these goals are unattainable without prioritizing education. He celebrated the achievements in the education sector, notably the 80.1% matric pass rate in 2022, attributing this success to the dedication of educators and the resilience of learners amidst challenges like the COVID-19 pandemic.

A significant focus of his speech was on addressing the high learner dropout rate. President Ramaphosa advocated for the implementation of the three-stream model, which introduces Technical Vocational specializations in schools. This initiative aims to equip students with practical skills aligned with the demands of the modern workforce, thereby enhancing their employment prospects and contributing to economic growth.

The President also underscored the importance of creating safe and supportive learning environments. He called for schools to be free from corporal punishment, sexual abuse, gender-based violence, racism, and substance abuse. Additionally, he highlighted government efforts to improve school infrastructure, including the construction of appropriate sanitation facilities through programs like the Sanitation Appropriate for Education (SAFE) initiative.

In essence, President Ramaphosa's address outlined a comprehensive vision for South Africa's education system, focusing on inclusivity, practical skill development, and the creation of conducive learning environments. This approach aims to empower learners, reduce dropout rates, and align educational outcomes with the nation's socio-economic objectives.