In response to the growing public concern, the department said that it follows strict recruitment protocols to ensure the safety of students.
The Gauteng Department of Education (GDE) on Monday confirmed its commitment to a zero-oppression policy over sexual misconduct, after which it was revealed that 12 convicted sexual criminals have been employed in Gauteng schools, so far rejected with nine.
Last week, citizen Told that the department knew about the employment status of criminals, but did not dismiss them all, pending the results of the necessary legal processes.
In response to the growing public concern, the department said that it follows strict recruitment protocols to ensure the safety of students.
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‘Strict legal procedures’
The department said, “The employment of individuals by the department is subject to strict legal and procedural procedures.”
As DepartmentAll school-based employees are displayed through child protection register and personnel suitability check, including criminal record vet, ID verification and merit check.
Additionally, the National Register for Sexual Offenders (NRSO) certificate is required before any employee is approved to appoint or dismiss.
“The final approval of the appointments rests with the head of the department (HOD), who can reject any appointment methodically, where a punishment exists under the Criminal Law (Sexual Offenses and Related Affairs) Amendment Act,” it has been said.
‘Waiting for certification for action’
Education Mat Matome Chiloane revealed that three 12 known sex criminals was rejected.
Outstanding NRSO certificates from the Department of Justice and the Constitutional Development Department remain in other nine systems.
“We are waiting for the necessary certification for the implicated employees to take a decision accordingly,” Chiloni said.
On Monday, he emphasized that the defense of students was non-conventional.
“The safety and goodness of our learners is our top priority,” he said.
“We are taking all the necessary steps to safe, safe and nurture the learning environment throughout the province.”
The department also said that this law is working with enforcement to ensure that the confirmed criminals are not in touch with the children.
A teacher, despite being convicted, is employed after the Education Labor Relations Council (ELRC), only a final written warning.