Mec to Take Action Against Ill-Disciplined Teachers

He made these remarks after he visited the Sinithemba High School in Phillippi, Cape Town, this morning on the opening of the third term for schools.

On arriving at the school at about 08h00, the MEC found only 30 out of the 52 teachers present. Whilst he was addressing the learners, a further ten arrived.

Mr Dugmore checked the attendance register, and told the teachers and personnel in no uncertain terms that he will take action against absconding teachers, and those arriving late.

The MEC also learned that there was some unhappiness among the teachers and the community about the appointment of a new principal. He has scheduled an urgent meeting with the governing body and teachers for this Sunday afternoon to iron out this problem.

He welcomed the proposal of the governing body that Ms Ngalonkulu be appointed as acting principal. "I am happy that educators and learners fully support the appointment of the acting principal. Now we must move to appoint a permanent principal. In the meantime everyone must make sure learning and teaching continue."

The MEC made it clear that differences over administrative and governance issues should not be an excuse for under performance and ill-discipline. "It is completely unacceptable that our learners' futures are jeopardised by the actions of teachers."

In his message to learners, he urged them to work even harder this term to make sure they succeed in progressing to the next grade.

He asked matriculants to start thinking positively about furthering their education, and apply to universities now already.

The MEC said the government is making available bursaries to students wishing to study further, and that they must enquire at their institution of choice about these bursaries.

For enquiries, contact Gert Witbooi: 082 577 6551, or gwitbooi@pgwc.gov.za.

Gert Witbooi
Media Secretary
Office of the MEC for Education
Western Cape
Tel: 021 467 2523
Fax: 021 425 5689

The Western Cape - A Home for All
INtshona Koloni - iKhaya loMntu wonke
Die Wes-Kaap - 'n Tuiste vir Almal