DA Ministers Urge Focus on Economic Growth and Education Ahead of SONA
Basic Education Minister Siviwe Gwarube has affirmed the Democratic Alliance’s (DA) alignment with President Cyril Ramaphosa’s focus on economic growth and job creation as key priorities in his upcoming State of the Nation Address (SONA).
The president is scheduled to deliver the address on Thursday evening at Cape Town City Hall.
Gwarube emphasised that achieving sustainable economic growth requires prioritising foundational learning and early childhood development, which will contribute to the country’s long-term economic stability.
As one of six DA ministers in Ramaphosa’s Cabinet, she noted that this year’s SONA presents an important opportunity for the president to outline the Government of National Unity’s (GNU) vision for the year ahead.
Gwarube further stressed the role of quality basic education in driving economic progress.
“One of the things that I’m hoping the president will really impress upon is the fact that we are in agreement that our priorities are around growth and jobs and we are in agreement in the seventh administration that in order for us to give effect to that, we have to make sure we are focusing on quality education in our country.”
DA spokesperson Karabo Khakhau echoed these sentiments, stating that the party expects Ramaphosa to centre his address on economic growth and job creation, as these are crucial to the country’s success.
While the DA acknowledges that job creation primarily falls within the private sector’s domain, the party believes the government must play a critical role in fostering an enabling environment. This, they argue, is essential for the success of the Government of National Unity.