HC Deb 11 December 1958 vol 597 cc99-100W
63. Mr. J. Johnson

asked the Under- Secretary of State for Commonwealth Relations what are the numbers of Basuto children at school and the number of teachers; and what steps are being taken to increase the supply of teachers.

Mr. Alport

In 1957, the latest date for which figures are available, 116,247 Basuto children were attending school. They were taught by 2,350 teachers. In the ten-year period 1946–56 the number of teachers increased by over 500. The Territory is now spending nearly 20 per cent. of its total revenue on education. The High Commissioner is considering financial proposals to improve the quality of staff in existing Primary Schools, and to increase the ratio of teachers to pupils.

Mr. J. Johnson

asked the Under-Secretary of State for Commonwealth Relations what university matriculation examinations are taken by the students in the secondary schools of Basutoland.

Mr. Alport

The matriculation examination taken in the secondary schools of Basutoland is that of the University of South Africa.