Baseless slap

LINDIWE Mazibuko's "We got chaff when we needed wheat" (February 12), was nothing but the opposition doing what it is expected to do: keep the executive on its toes. But her attack on the state of the nation address was baseless and lacked any alternative suggestions for the way forward. - Kiekie Mboweni, Nkowankowa

Role model

WE love Ben Trovato so much, he is our role model. - Kgomotso and Meshack, Upington

Madibanking

THE ANC has outdone itself and this time it's our banknotes - I mean their banknotes, "Madiba's face on notes" (February 12). Well done folks, we all could do with some Madiba in our wallets, and how about some coins to complete the dominancy - I mean, the currency. - Lucas Mokhele, Kroonstad

HAPPY about banknotes with the face of Madiba, but maybe they should leave the note with the rhino on so our children will know what they looked like! - Kitty, by SMS

Sadtu relate

PHYLICIA, there are ways to convey constructive criticism without derogatory words, "President's sick joke about Sadtu's wonderful teachers" (February 12). The words that you chose to use in calling teachers in the Eastern Cape to resume their duties are in conflict with our ubuntu ethos. The article is invidious, it has the potential to polarise society. The class of 2011 demonstrates that the overwhelming majority of Sadtu members are hard-working, patriotic South Africans. - David, Tshwane

GOOD on you, Ms Oppelt, sock it to President Zuma and Sadtu. Education first, then self-interest. - G Adams, Heideveld

THANKS, Phylicia, for a wonderful article. It is so sad that the politicians can't see the real problems in our country and that children have to give their dreams up daily because of selfish adults. Please run for president - you have my vote! - Elsa, Johannesburg