The Congress of South African Trade Unions (COSATU) Gauteng is deeply disturbed by the Gauteng Department of Education’s disclosure that it has uncovered 41 cases of alleged corruption, fraud, financial mismanagement and maladministration across schools in the province. The findings, which implicate principals, School Governing Body (SGB) members, educators, administrative staff and service providers, expose a serious betrayal of the trust placed in those responsible for safeguarding public education.

Every rand stolen from our schools is a rand stolen from a learner. Corruption in education denies children access to quality learning environments, decent infrastructure, learner support materials, school nutrition, and the opportunities they deserve. It is the children of working-class and poor families who suffer the greatest consequences when public resources are looted.

COSATU Gauteng commends the Gauteng Department of Education for undertaking the internal investigation and exposing these alleged acts of corruption. We welcome the commitment by the department to refer criminal matters to law enforcement agencies, including the Hawks, and call for swift investigations, prosecutions and disciplinary action against all those found guilty, regardless of their position or status.

The Federation further calls for:

·       The department to take appropriate actions for those alleged to have unduly benefited pending the outcomes of the investigation.

• The recovery of all public funds lost through fraud and corruption.
• Stronger financial controls and governance systems in schools to prevent future abuse.
• Regular audits of school finances and procurement processes.
• Enhanced protection for whistleblowers who expose corruption within the education sector.

COSATU Gauteng wishes to emphasise that the overwhelming majority of educators and education workers remain committed professionals who continue to serve learners with dedication despite difficult working conditions. The criminal conduct of a few individuals must not tarnish the reputation of thousands of honest public servants who work tirelessly to build a better education system.

Education is a constitutional right and a cornerstone of social and economic development. Corruption undermines this right and robs future generations of the opportunities they deserve. Those entrusted with managing public resources must understand that public office is a public trust, not an opportunity for personal enrichment.

COSATU Gauteng remains committed to working with government, workers, communities and law enforcement agencies to eradicate corruption and ensure that every cent allocated to education reaches its intended purpose—the education and development of our children.

Issued by COSATU Gauteng

Provincial Chairperson: Amos Vusi Monyela:  079 493 5002

Provincial Secretary: Louisah Moepeng Modikwe: 082 297 2659