Investigations into jobs for cash allegations still in progress

The Task Team appointed by the Minister of Basic Education, Mrs Angie Motshekga, into the "jobs for sale" allegations should be allowed to do its work without pressure or prejudice. It is unfortunate that the Democratic Alliance is calling for the release of the report while the investigation is still in progress. 

The Minister initiated the investigation after it was reported that certain posts for teachers and principals had been given to individuals who had paid cash to secure the jobs. The Department condemns the practice of "selling" or arranging jobs for teachers or principals or any individual for that matter. Anybody who applies for a post in the education system must be appointed on merit.

The Department has on several occasions briefed the Portfolio Committee on Basic Education on the progress of the investigation and it was made clear that the Task Team had pleaded for more time as there were more people coming forward with information. It would therefore be premature to insist on a report which has not yet been compiled due to ongoing investigation.

The investigation is headed by Professor John Volmink and involves a forensic team from a private sector company appointed to assist the Task Team.

The investigating team has visited all provinces and interviewed Education Departmental officials, national and provincial leaders of teacher unions, individuals and School Governing Body Organisations. The investigation is complex, sensitive and at times the implicated persons have not fully co-operated which has lead to delays. The Task Team has twice requested an extension in order to gather more evidence before a report is compiled. 

The Terms of reference indicates that where there is sufficient evidence of wrong doing, the police will be involved to help bring those implicated to face the full might of the law.

The Task Team will complete its work and submit a report to the Minister. It is anticipated that the report will be completed before the end of the year.

Issued by Elijah Mhlanga on behalf of the Department of Basic Education, 3 November 2015