There's a lot of angst about the new leadership of the ANC's supposed leftist leanings.

There's a lot of angst about the new leadership of the ANC's supposed leftist leanings.

Much of the comment has been critical, labelling the ruling party's pro-poor policies as economically unsound.

We beg to differ. Uplifting the poor is not tantamount to throwing fiscal prudence out of the window.

It should be remembered that the ANC came into power on a pro-poor ticket, promising a better life for all through the provision of housing, shelter and free education. And education provides a sustainable alternative to poverty.

So, all South Africans should welcome Jacob Zuma's announcement that the ruling party wants the government to provide free and compulsory education to the poor up to undergraduate level.