We, the parents of Equal Education in the Eastern Cape, are deeply disturbed by the allegations of financial mismanagement of over a million rands involving a school principal of Ulwazi Senior Secondary School, specifically in the Buffalo City (Mdantsane) area.
We strongly believe these allegations warrant a thorough investigation, and if substantiated, decisive action must be taken. In light of these allegations, we stress the urgent need to prioritise our children’s welfare, particularly those struggling with hunger and inadequate resources. Notably, this incident is not isolated, and similar accusations have surfaced in other schools.
We therefore call on the Department of Education to conduct a comprehensive audit of financial statements across all schools to ensure accountability and transparency. We suspect that financial records may be fabricated, and the department must verify the authenticity of these records to prevent further mismanagement.
We demand transparency and accountability in school management, ensuring funds are used for their intended purpose: providing quality education and supporting learner well-being. We remain committed to advocating for our children’s rights and demanding accountability from those entrusted with managing school resources. We urge the relevant authorities to take immediate action to address these allegations and ensure our children receive the support they deserve.
As Equal Education parents, we also demand clear and thorough practices between schools and governing bodies. Governing bodies should be key stakeholders who are equipped to hold officials accountable.
We further demand that school budgets and spending reports be made available to learners, through LRCs, for scrutiny and to enhance transparency and accountability regarding the use of public resources allocated for education. Learners have the right to access this budget information and to receive explanations and justifications for school budget decisions and performance. This accountability culture should become deeply embedded in our schooling system.
[ENDS]
For comment, please contact:
Ona Matshaya: Head of Organising Eastern Cape: ona@equaleducation.org.za +27 84 559 3090
Sesethu August: Communications Officer: sesethu@equaleducation.org.za +27 63 21 7983