##### The Future of Education Improvement

This chapter explores the future of education improvement in South Africa, drawing insight and recommendations from various streams of sessions. Each of these streams provides a unique perspective on the future of education in the country.

##### Stream 1: Classroom Pedagogics Pilot Research Output

One session in this stream highlighted the Classroom Pedagogics Pilot Research Output conducted by the Teaching, Teacher, and Education for Equitable and Quality Learning (TTTEQL) Consortium. The research aims to understand teaching practices and beliefs and support structures for educators.

Key insights from this session revealed the significance of the study in researching the intricacies of teaching practices, teacher identity, teacher beliefs and support structures available to both novice and experienced educators. It focused on understanding the underlying reasons for learning and reading challenges in South Africa.

The study found that teachers employ various techniques to align lessons with objectives and assess learners' prior knowledge. Importantly, a significant percentage of teachers reported experiencing stress, with circuit managers in different school quintiles offering various levels of support.

##### Stream 2: Reading Improvement - From Planning to Action

This session focused on the emerging reading improvement plan and its implementation at the district level, with a specific focus on South African schools. Key insights from this session highlighted the challenges faced by South African schools and districts, particularly relating to curriculum coverage and learning gaps. Emphasis was placed on data-driven decision-making to effectively address these challenges.

The session also underscored the crucial role of reading literacy in the education system, especially by age 10, advocating for a balanced approach that integrates phonics and whole language learning, with particular attention to morphological awareness. Moreover, the session stressed the importance of district-centric implementation for a comprehensive reading literacy strategy. Prioritising home language teaching and ensuring the availability of relevant materials are critical elements.

##### Stream 3: NECT’s Role in Supporting NDP Implementation

This session explored into the role of the NECT in supporting the Department of Basic Education in achieving the 2030 National Development Plan (NDP) objectives within South Africa's basic education sector. Insights from this session highlighted the contributions and achievements of NECT in meeting Early Childhood Development (ECD) targets and addressing the "eight big targets" of the NDP. However, concerns were raised about the feasibility of achieving these targets by 2030.

The roles of the DBE and NECT were discussed, with the DBE recognised as the leader of the educational system, while NECT's role was characterised as that of a ‘catalyst for change’, focusing on interventions at district and school levels. Additionally, the session acknowledged NECT's role in facilitating discussions and managing opposition within the ECD sector, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic.

##### Stream 4: Drawing Additional Technical Capacity from Non-Governmental Organisations (NGO) and Academia

This session explored the technical assistance needs within the education system, emphasising collaboration between the private sector, NGOs, and higher education institutions. Key insights highlighted a contrast between the private sector's short-term focus and the education sector's need for a longer-term perspective. Collaboration among diverse stakeholders was emphasised for improving the education system, with a specific focus on investment in technical education.

The role of NGOs was discussed, acknowledging their agility and capacity to bridge the gap between government and private sector.

The session emphasised the importance of understanding teaching practices, improving reading literacy, supporting NDP goals, and fostering collaboration among various stakeholders to effectively address the country's education challenges.