This follows a study that was conducted from a sample of 3 284 respondents, between the ages of 13 and 34.
According to the Gauteng Department of Education, it has a zero tolerance approach to fraud and corruption, and is aware of the focus on schools by Corruption Watch.
“We have a comprehensive whistle blowing policy, anti-corruption policy and fraud prevention plan,” says the department’s spokesperson, Gershwin Chuenyane.
“The MEC and senior officials of the department had a joint workshop with Corruption Watch in June, where we each presented our concerns regarding corruption in schools and what each of us is doing to deal with this issue.”
CW’s executive director David Lewis says the survey was conducted to gain more insight into corruption in schools, after the civil society organisation received a high inflow of corruption reports about schools, this year.
“This survey is just one in a series of studies that we plan to conduct into this matter, so that we can have a clearer picture of the ways in which corruption manifests itself within schools,” he says.
The survey found that just over half of the respondents (53 per cent) believe that corruption in schools is getting worse, and revealed the following:
n. Six out of 10 respondents say school principals were responsible for misusing money or property and were responsible for nepotism, with members of SGB being implicated.
n. Six out of 10 respondents say teachers were responsible for soliciting favours in return for better marks and were responsible for selling exam and test papers to learners.
Chuene says there are various methods by which the public can report fraud and corruption, and each allegation reported is investigated.
These mediums include the Presidential Hotline and Office of the Premier, and matters can also be raised by the public, directly with either the head of department or MEC’s office.
“Where employees are found to be involved in fraud and corruption, the department acts in terms of its internal disciplinary code and, when the need arises, the department involves the South African Police Services (SAPS),” he explains.
Lewis encourages parents to play an active role in monitoring corruption in schools.
“Mostly, we wish to encourage parents to get more involved in the running of their children’s schools and ensure that leaders in schools are held accountable,” he says.
Corruption Watch provides several ways in which anybody can get involved in exposing corruption:
* Call the schools tip-off line on 0800 023 456
* Send an SMS containing the word BRIBE to 45142 (R1 per SMS)
* Send an email to info@corruptionwatch.org.za
* Post a letter to PO Box 113, Parklands, 2121.
