The Gauteng Education Department is grappling with a R4.5 billion budget cut, putting over 3,000 teacher positions at risk. MEC Matome Chiloane emphasized the challenge of balancing fiscal constraints with the need to maintain educational quality amid rapid population growth. Despite necessary cuts to programs like scholar transport and school nutrition, efforts are focused on protecting teaching jobs. Meanwhile, the Basic Education Laws Amendment (Bela) Bill, recently signed by President Cyril Ramaphosa, is facing criticism. However, Cosatu and teachers’ unions support the Bill, which aims to improve educational outcomes by making Grade R mandatory and addressing school challenges.