Complaints about SGB’s financial practices inspired a governance intervention in April
The Gauteng Department of Education (GDE) has addressed several concerns related to Unity Secondary School in Daviton, which are a fire incident at the Riverly High School, and challenges in the Funding for Schools of Specialization (SOS).
The department on Monday admitted the allegations that teaching posts were being sold at Unity Secondary School.
The case is from 2024 complaints, alleging that R17 000 was deposited in a teacher’s account in exchange for employment.
The GDE said, “The trapped teacher denied any participation, and due to no support from the complainant, the matter was closed due to lack of evidence.”
Department It was also claimed that parents were forced to pay R450 for the student report card.
It said that it was a voluntary donation, which agreed in the annual general meeting “, which aligns with Section 37 (1) of the South African School Act.
Complaints about the governing body (SGB) financial practices to the school inspired a governance intervention in April.
“All SGB members were provided access to school financial statements, and the communication structures were strengthened,” GDE said.
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Pass rates declining and lack of staffing
The department accepted a decrease of 86% in the school’s matriculation pass rate in 2020 in 2020 to 86%.
In response, it rolled out teacher development programs and learner support through the Secondary School Intervention Program (SSIP).
Staff shortage remains an issue.
“The school currently has two vacant departmental heads (DH) posts and an empty deputy principal post,” the statement confirmed.
The appointment of a mid-year for the post of Deputy Principal is expected.
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River high fire under investigation
After the fire on 27 April, the river school damaged the important infrastructure.
Test The South African Police Service (SAPS) forensic unit continues.
While five mobile classes were distributed to reduce the disruption, the department confirmed that there is no “any expenditure to report at this time” for the R2.5 million repair scheme.
The school had limited fire security infrastructure, and the final fire security inspection was not recorded before the incident.
Fire blankets and basic fire fighting training were introduced after the fire, and further cooperation with emergency services is planned later this year.
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Expertations face lack of school budget
Funding for SOS schools has decreased due to comprehensive budgetary obstacles.
However, the department stated that it “continues to pay salary for all state-employed teachers and supports the cost of infrastructure, except for minor maintenance.”
GDE reiterated that schools can complement resources through funds.
“Any additional requirements are to be addressed through the initiative to raise school money,” read in the statement.
The department, along with SGB and stakeholders, urged to improve accountability and learning results.
“These issues are being participated with necessary hard work,” said this.
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