Portfolio Committee on Basic Education Oversight Visit Reinforces Commitment to Quality Education Members of Portfolio Committee on Basic Education , together with the KwaZulu-Natal Department of Education Senior Management led by Advocate Bheki Masuku, Deputy Director General for Corporate Services, Ms Thembelihle Gumede, Chief Director for District Operations managing Coastal Cluster, Gugu Madlala, Chief Director, Social Enrichment Programmes, and Dr Musawenkosi Madondo, ILembe District Director, embarked on a dynamic school visit that underscored their commitment to enhancing quality education. The final oversight visit took place at Esidumbini Primary School in the Ilembe District, where the infrastructure, safety, and learning environment were rigorously evaluated. The school, which serves learners from Grade R to Grade 7, has 722 learners. Principal Mr. Morgan Ximba highlighted the school's academic excellence, with pass rates above 95%, and the positive impact of a donated borehole on the school’s development. He emphasized the need for a library, media center, and laboratory to support future initiatives like robotics. Mr. Futsepo Louw, in his closing remarks, urged empathy and discipline from both the department and Parliament to better understand the needs of learners. He stressed the importance of financial management and administrative efficiency to enhance learning productivity. Louw also praised the educators' dedication despite challenges, emphasizing the significance of teacher and learner wellbeing. The insights from this visit will be submitted to Parliament at further interventions aimed at improving quality education. Venue: Esidumbini Primary School, Ilembe District Date: 27 February 2025