Education the key - Zuma

2009-06-07 19:59

Cape Town - Education is the key to sorting out South Africa's problems, President Jacob Zuma said on Sunday.

His government "meant business" when it came to promoting education, he said during an interview on SABC television.

"If we are to address all the ills that face our country, education is the key. Because if you have not educated your population, it means they are not empowered to participate in the economic activities, or in any other activity.

"That's why it's important to educate the population. It's therefore critical to invest in education", Zuma said.

Any nation that wanted to develop had to educate its people and provide them with skills.

Zuma said his government's focus on this was not just a matter of saying education was necessary to move forward.

"We've split the ministries so that there is specific focus given on both. Basic education is critical, because that's where the formative years are. That's where you shape a human being."

Zuma said he was set to engage "every sector" involved in education, including school principals, teachers and pupils.

- SAPA