SAELA Conference 2024

INVITATION:

As we eagerly anticipate the upcoming South African Education Law Association (SAELA) conference, the spotlight is set on the intriguing theme: “Who is BELAB? – And is she the right fit for the changing South African landscape?” Our discussion delves far beyond mere terminology, undertaking a profound exploration of BELAB’s roles, responsibilities, and impact on South Africa’s dynamic educational terrain.

At the heart of our discourse lies the Basic Education Laws Amendment Bill—a pivotal document that stands to shape the future of education in this nation. As we examine the proposed amendments, our central inquiry revolves around how these changes may contribute to enhancing the quality of education that every child in South Africa is entitled to, yet often falls short of receiving.

The amendments, as framed within the broader objectives of the South African Schools Act, aim to address historical injustices, foster progressively high-quality education, and contribute to the democratic transformation of society. Our collective endeavor is to discern whether these proposed changes align with the Act’s overarching goals, upholding the rights of all learners, parents, and educators.

The conference aims to collectively explore how education law, viewed through the prism of BELAB, can lead us toward a future where each child undergoes an enriched and equitable learning journey. We encourage you to mark your calendars for the dates from Sunday, 4 August, to Wednesday, 7 August 2023, and confirm your reservation for this transformative event.

This conference promises a blend of in-person sessions in Gauteng, South Africa, and live online sessions for global participation. It provides a unique platform to listen to insightful presentations, engage in meaningful discussions, and share experiences related to the evolving landscape of education law.

Your presence at the SAELA conference is not only an opportunity to deepen your understanding of education law but also a chance to contribute to the development of future legislation. Together, let’s shape the future of education in South Africa and beyond!

CALL FOR PAPERS:

SAELA invites presenters to submit abstracts for the 2024 conference.  It is our intention to bring together researchers, practitioners, theorists, and educators with the aim of sharing research findings, experience, theory, and ideas related to education and the law, specifically in the area of how Education law can be used to guide sustainable social change in education.

ABSTRACT SUBMISSION:

SAELA invites proposals for presentations in the following categories:

• Academic / Research papers.
• Practice-based presentation.
• Case commentaries.

Presented papers should contribute to the conference theme and discuss ways in which law and education intersect, exploring possibilities, challenges, and solutions to sustainable social changes in education.  Please keep in mind, when preparing your abstract, that your presentation should have a strong focus on Education law, demonstrate academic rigor, and relate clearly to the theme of the conference.

Please prepare an abstract of between 300 and 500 words and submit it on the SAELA website –  Abstract submission for 2024

The deadline for submissions is 15 April 2024.  Moreover, you will be asked to provide your details and, if applicable, those of your co-authors, as well as up to six keywords and an explanation of the relevance of your proposed presentation to Education law and the conference theme.

If you have any questions, please contact saela2023@gmail.com.

IMPORTANT DATES:

Submit abstract:                            15 April 2023

Early-bird registration:                  Paid by 31 May 2024

Registrations close:                       30 June 2024

Conference dates:                         4 – 7 August 2023

CONFERENCE REGISTRATION:

Registration is now open. To qualify for the early bird registration package, you must register and pay before 31 May. Click here for ONLINE REGISTRATION.

Conference packages are available for face-to-face attendance, as well as online attendance.

Packages for face-to-face attendance:

R 4,000             Per person early-bird full registration (paid by 31 May)

R 2,200             Per person one-day only registration per day

R 4,500             Per person normal registration (with payment after 31 May)

R 3,200             Unemployed post-graduate students (paid by 31 May)

The face-to-face fee includes daily lunch, coffee/tea, and refreshments, as well as an evening dinner function.  Each delegate is responsible for their own travel and accommodations, as well as breakfasts and other dinners. Delegates who wish to book accommodation at the Protea Hotel Johannesburg Balalaika Sandton can use the following link for a special conference rate: Book your group rate for SAELA.

Packages for online attendance:

R 1,900          Per person individual attendance

R 1,380          Per person for group attendance (groups of 3 and more)

Group attendance allows institutions to broadcast the conference to their members, for example in a conference room or hall.

CONFERENCE REGISTRATION NOTES:

Please note:

• Attendees and presenters must register for the conference. Once your payment has been received and a Payment and Registration Confirmation has been issued, your registration will be considered final.
• Registration fees cover conference costs, refreshments, buffet lunches on Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday, and an evening function. The evening function will feature a cash bar. You are responsible for all other meals.
• Registration fees do not include accommodation, travel, tourist activities, or other meals.
• Please indicate on the registration form if you intend to bring accompanying persons to any of the meals included in the registration fee. There will be an additional charge.
• We regret that SAELA is not able to cover the travel expenses, conference fees, or any other costs incurred by presenters/delegates. You are responsible for making your own travel and accommodation arrangements.
• SAELA does not provide transportation services or arrange transportation. The delegates are responsible for arranging and paying for their own transportation to and from the conference.
• Registration will take place on Sunday evening, Monday and Tuesday mornings from 7:30 to 8:25, and on Wednesday mornings from 8:00 to 8:25. Delegates may collect conference bags, programs, name tags, etc., during this time.  Your Payment and Registration Confirmation should be brought with you.

For further information contact:
Mrs. Maryke Beukes
E-mail: saela2023@gmail.com