Mfuleni school palie probed over misuse of funds allegations

DISRUPTED: Some classes were stopped on Monday after parents demanded the removal of the principal at Parliament Primary School in Mfuleni.

Image: File

LEARNERS at a Mfuleni primary school lost classroom time after parents demanded the removal of the principal over allegations of nepotism and misuse of school funds

The Western Cape Education Department (WCED) is investigating the allegations at Parliament Primary School in Mfuleni.

Parents gathered at the school on Monday and raised concerns about how the school was being run, including allegations over staff appointments and school finances. The allegations have not been proven.

WCED spokesperson Bronagh Hammond confirmed officials were at the school and met representatives of the school governing body.

Hammond said: “I can confirm that a protest took place at the school yesterday, during which a number of allegations were raised. WCED officials were present and met with representatives of the School Governing Body to discuss the concerns. The allegations will now be investigated through the appropriate processes.”

One of the allegations raised by parents is that a teacher was removed and replaced by a relative of the principal.

Parents have also questioned how school funds are being used.

The WCED has not made any findings on the allegations.

Hammond said some parents entered the school premises during the protest and disrupted teaching.

Hammond explained: “However, the conduct of some parents was unacceptable. Individuals entered the school premises and disrupted teaching and learning.

“Such actions do not assist in resolving concerns and instead impact the education of learners, including their own children.”

Police were called to the school and calm was restored with the assistance of SAPS and WCED officials.

The department also warned parents that disrupting teaching could have legal consequences - including a fine or up to 12 months innie tjoekie.

Hammond said parents had been informed about provisions of the Basic Education Laws Amendment (BELA) Act dealing with disruptions at schools.

She explained: “The BELA Act makes it clear that the unlawful and intentional interruption, disruption or hindrance of a school’s official educational activities constitutes an offence.”