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HISTORY OF SAELA

Freedom, Equity,
and Qualityin Education

SAELA traces its roots back to October 1995 when a steering committee, led by Prof Johan Beckmann, was formed with the vision of establishing an organization dedicated to South African education law and policy. This vision materialized in October 1996 during SAELPA's inaugural international conference in Rustenburg, Northwest Province, South Africa. At this historic event, the association's Constitution was formally adopted, and an executive committee was elected.
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New publication: Commentary on Education Law and Policy

SAELA is proud to announce the launch of Commentary on Education Law and Policy, edited by M Reyneke and J van der Merwe-Mocke.

This first edition brings together contributions from experts in education law and related fields. It explores important legal and policy questions affecting education in South Africa and considers how these principles shape decisions and practices within the education system. The book will be a valuable resource for academics, legal practitioners, policymakers, education officials, school leaders and others with an interest in education law.

Those wishing to purchase the electronic edition can do so through Van Schaik’s online store.

Purchase the e-book from Van Schaik

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30th Annual International EducationLawConference

We are excited to announce the 30th Annual SAELA 2026 International Conference with the theme:
Pothole or Speed Bump? Balancing Rights, Resources and Responsibilities in Education.
The conference will take place at
Southern Sun The Marine in Port Elizabeth in the Eastern Cape.
A hybrid conference allowing both face-to-face and virtual attendance.

Accommodation (Special Conference rate)
For accommodation at Southern Sun The Marine, quote
BLOCK ID 5089918
when booking directly with the hotel to access the SAELA Conference rate.

CLICK HERE TO REGISTER

2 - 5 August 2026

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A Defining Highlight of SAELA 2025

One of the standout moments of the SAELA Conference was this engagement between the SAELA Executive Committee and the Minister of Basic Education.

This photo captures a spirit of cooperation and mutual commitment to strengthening education law in South Africa. As thought leaders, practitioners, governing body associations and policymakers came together over the past three days, this moment reminded us of the power of connection and the importance of dialogue at the highest level.

#SAELA2025

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A Moment of Honour at SAELA 2025

The SAELA community was deeply honoured to welcome the esteemed Former Chief Justice Raymond M.M. Zondo to our 29th International Education Law Conference.

Justice Zondo joined us at the gala dinner, where he received the SAELA Certificate of Lifetime Achievement – a tribute to his extraordinary contribution to justice, ethical governance, and the protection of South Africa’s constitutional democracy.

This award recognises his unwavering commitment to the rule of law, his courageous leadership of the State Capture Commission, and his role in strengthening public trust in our democratic institutions. His legacy is one of integrity, accountability, and visionary leadership.

It was a privilege to celebrate this milestone in the presence of delegates who share the belief that law and leadership can – and must – serve the public good.

We thank Justice Zondo for his presence, his inspiration, and his lifetime of service to our nation.

#SAELA2025 #RaymondZondo

HISTORY OF SAELA

Our Mission

Organize Engaging Events:
We host conferences, symposia, workshops, addresses, briefing sessions, and similar occasions to provide platforms for meaningful dialogue and knowledge exchange.
Promote Research & Teaching:
Actively encouraging and supporting research activities, their publication, and the development of educational resources in the field of education law and policy.
Facilitate Communication:
SAELA aims to enhance communication within the education law community through journals, newsletters, information sheets, or other mediums, ensuring seamless information flow.
Liaise with Education Authorities:
We establish effective liaisons with South African education authorities at all levels to contribute constructively to policy discussions.
Public Engagement:
SAELA actively promotes the participation of its members in public debates related to education law and policy, influencing positive change through informed and constructive discourse.
International Collaboration:
Seeking appropriate cooperation with South African, foreign, and international associations, institutions, or individuals that share our purpose or can contribute to the realization of our goals.
Supporting the Disadvantaged:
SAELA is committed to actively participating in programs that support disadvantaged members of the education community, creating an inclusive and equitable educational environment for all.
As members of SAELA,
we are united by our passion for education and a commitment to the principles of freedom, equity, and quality. Join us in our journey to make a lasting impact on South African education law and policy. Together, we can build a brighter future for education in our nation.

Our Vision

SAELA envisions a South African educational landscape where human rights are paramount, diversity is celebrated, and the highest standards of quality are upheld. Our mission is to make a tangible impact on education law matters by fostering engaging discussions, promoting human rights in education policy, and advancing knowledge and understanding of education law among all stakeholders.
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HISTORY OF SAELA

Our Leadership

The heartbeat of SAELA lies in its dynamic executive committee, elected during the Annual General Meeting, typically convened in conjunction with the Association’s Annual Conference.

This dedicated group comprises 8-10 members, each playing a vital role, including the Chair, Vice-Chair, Treasurer, and Secretary. The election of a new executive committee takes place every three years, ensuring a continuous infusion of fresh perspectives and expertise to drive SAELA forward in its commitment to the advancement of education law in South Africa.

Explore the profiles of our current leadership and witness the collective passion and expertise that propels SAELA towards its goals.