IN CONVERSATION WITH VUSI MONYELA,COSATU Gauteng Provincial Chairperson

COSATU Gauteng has raised concerns following the Gauteng
Department of Education’s disclosure that it uncovered 41 cases of
alleged corruption, fraud, financial mismanagement and

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maladministration at schools across the province.
The allegations reportedly involve various individuals within the school
environment, including principals, School Governing Body members,
educators, administrative staff and service providers. COSATU
Gauteng says these findings represent a serious breach of trust,
warning that the misuse of school funds directly affects learners by
reducing resources available for infrastructure, learning materials,
support programmes and school nutrition initiatives.
The trade union federation has welcomed the department’s internal
investigation and its decision to refer criminal matters to law
enforcement agencies, including the Hawks. COSATU Gauteng is
calling for swift investigations, disciplinary action and prosecution of
anyone found guilty, regardless of their position.
The federation is also calling for stronger financial controls in schools,
regular audits of school finances and procurement processes, the
recovery of any public funds lost through fraud, and improved
protection for whistleblowers who report corruption.
COSATU Gauteng has stressed that the alleged misconduct of some
individuals should not overshadow the work of the majority of
educators and education workers who continue to serve learners
across the province.
The issue comes amid broader concerns about governance and
accountability in the education sector, with calls for greater
transparency to ensure that public funds allocated to schools are used
for their intended purpose, improving learning conditions and
supporting learners.