The Minister of Basic Education Mrs Angie Motshekga will launch an official investigation into the allegations that South African Democratic Teachers Union (SADTU) members are selling posts. She will next week announce the names of the investigating team as well as their terms of reference.
"I view these reports in a very serious light. The department will not hesitate to institute criminal charges against those found to be part of, what I believe, are attempts to undermine the hard work that the department is doing in ensuring the quality of teaching," says Minister Motshekga.
The Minister has communicated her intentions to launch the official probe with the President’s office and will, as early as next week, announce the names of investigators as well as the terms of reference.
The investigation comes after allegations that individuals in various provinces were involved in selling posts for cash and in some instances it's alleged that some school principals are intimidated and forcefully removed from their posts to be replaced by the those who paid sums of up to R30,000.
From the initial reports it seems there are syndicates operating in the system that include school governing body members, officials from the districts and members of SADTU as well as principals themselves. The investigation would seek to uncover the extent of the practice with a view to taking disciplinary and criminal action against those found to be involved.
The Minister has also noted with concern the ongoing challenges facing learners and the community around Moshesh High School in the Eastern Cape. The Minister has since instructed the MEC to immediately resolve the issues plaguing the school, and directed the acting Director General, Mr Panyaza Lesufi to follow up on the matter.
"It's unacceptable that learners still have to face such problems in order to get an education. What is happening to them and the community of Queen's Mercy Village is unfortunate and an urgent solution needs to be found without any further delays," says Minister Motshekga.
Enquiries:
Elijah Mhlanga
Cell: 083 580 8275
Troy Martens
Cell: 079 899 3070
