To run properly, schools need to have school governing bodies (SGB) with qualified and committed parents.

Gauteng Education MEC Barbara Creecy says: "An SGB would need someone with knowledge of the law, because at times SGB members need to deal with disciplinary hearings of learners. They would also need someone with a knowledge of finance."

Paul Colditz of the Federation of SGBs says parents need to be ready to read and learn a lot about laws and regulations. He says: "You need someone who has leadership, administrative, financial and legal skills. If (parents) do not have these skills, the department and our organisation can train them. You will need to read a lot of documents."