The Department of Basic Education (DBE) is one of the departments of the South African government. It oversees primary and secondary education in South Africa.

It was created in 2009 when the former Department of Education was divided: DBE and the Department of Higher Education and Training. The aim of the DBE is to develop, maintain and support a South African school education system for the 21st century. The DBE deals with all schools from Grade R to Grade 12 and adult literacy programs.

 

Vision

Our vision is of a South Africa in which all our people have access to lifelong learning, as well as education and training, which will, in turn, contribute towards improving the quality of life and building a peaceful, prosperous and democratic South Africa.

 

Mission

Our mission is to provide leadership with respect to provinces, districts and schools in the establishment of a South African education system for the 21st century.

 

Programs:

• Inclusive Education
• National School Nutrition Program
• Quality Learning and Teaching Campaign

 

Organization

The Department is divided into units, referred to as "Branches". Each branch, headed by a deputy director-general, is further subdivided into chief directorates. The chief directorates are also subdivided into a number of directorates.

DBE Branches

• Administration (Branch A)
• Curriculum Policy, Support and Monitoring (Branch C)
• Planning and Delivery Oversight Unit
• Planning, Information and Assessments (Branch P)
• Social Mobilization and Support Services (Branch S)
• Strategy, Research and Communication (R)
• Teachers, Education Human Resources and Institutional Development (Branch T)