This page introduces a new theme in the Grade 11 Life Orientation Term 1 syllabus: Democracy and Human Rights. While the previous units focused on the physical fitness and health programme, we now shift our focus to how you can actively participate in the governance of your country.
The Petition Process: Grade 11 LO Term 1
In a democracy like South Africa, citizens have the right to be involved in how they are governed. This is known as participation. One of the most effective “procedures” (a series of actions done in a certain order) for democratic participation is the submission of a petition.
1. What is a Petition?
In Life Orientation, a petition is defined as a formal written document, signed by many people, that requests a person or organization (usually the government) to do or change something.
It is a direct way for you to exercise your Constitutional values and hold the government accountable.
2. Public Participation and the Petition Process
Submitting a petition can be done at different levels of government:
- Local Government: For issues in your immediate community (e.g., street lights, local parks).
- Provincial Government: For issues affecting your province (e.g., provincial roads, schools, or clinics).
- Parliament (National): For issues that affect the entire country.
To ensure your petition is successful, you should contact the Public Participation Units or the Public Education Office. These departments provide the correct forms and ensure your request reaches the right decision-makers.
3. How to Draw Up a Petition (Sample Format)
A professional petition must follow a specific structure to be considered valid. Below is the standard format required for Grade 11:
The Front Page Essentials:
- Your Address and Date: Located at the top right.
- The Recipient: For example, “To the Speaker of the Provincial Legislature.”
- Description of Petitioners: State who is complaining (e.g., “Concerned learners of SchoolNotes High”).
- The Reason: Clearly state the problem you are drawing attention to.
- The Request: State exactly what you want the government to do.
- Principal Petitioner: The name, signature, and contact details of the person leading the petition.
- Signatures: A list of names and signatures of other people who support the cause.
4. Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take for a petition to be approved?
There is no fixed time for a petition to be “approved.” However, once submitted, the petition is sent to a Petitions Committee. They will investigate the matter, which can take several weeks or even months. The committee will then provide a report or a recommendation on what action should be taken.
Where can I find help with a petition?
- Parliament Clerk of Papers: For national petitions.
- Parliamentary Democracy Offices (PDO): Located in various provinces.
- Local Municipal Offices: For community-level participation.
Activity 1: Practical Petition Task
This activity helps you apply your Term 1 knowledge of civic participation.
- Group Work: In your groups, decide on one issue at your school or in your community that affects your well-being (e.g., a lack of sports equipment or unsafe crossings).
- Drafting: Use the sample format above to draw up your petition.
- Collection: See how many signatures you can gather. Remember, the more signatures you have, the more weight your petition carries!
Next Lesson: Understanding the bigger picture of leadership: The Meaning of Governance.
Quick Navigation: