The Deans of Education of public higher education institutions in South Africa established a national forum under the auspices of HESA to share experience, expertise and concerns related to the responsibilities of Faculties of Education. The purpose of the Forum is to promote the interests of education in South Africa by providing the opportunity for Deans to discuss matters of concern to them and their Faculties in the fulfillment of their responsibilities for teacher education and the disciplined study of education. Faculties of Education at public higher education institutions in South Africa carry two distinct but linked responsibilities. One is to foster independent inquiry (research) in the broad field of education. The other is the education of professional teachers (primarily for the schooling and FET colleges system), but also for professional teachers in other sites. The education of teachers includes both initial and continuing professional education. The Forum meets four times a year.