Neelam Rahim | neelam@radioislam.co.za

3-minute read
07 November 2024 | 16:26 CAT

On the left, EUSA general secretary Siphiwe Mpungose, and the union president Sicelo Bhengu on the right. Picture: Jonisayi Maromo / ANA

In a strong rebuke, the Educators Union of South Africa (EUSA) has voiced its disapproval of recent remarks by the South African Democratic Teachers Union (SADTU) directed at the school governing body (SGB) of Pretoria High School for Girls. EUSA general secretary Sphiwe Mgungose stated that SADTU’s actions are “disappointing” and “a diversion from the pressing issues that teachers face daily.”

Speaking to Radio Islam International, Mgungose pointed to what he called SADTU’s “cheap politicking,” accusing the union of targeting the SGB instead of focusing on critical concerns affecting teachers and students. “Instead of addressing class size ratios or school safety issues, SADTU has chosen to attack the SGB,” said Mgungose, labelling the union’s approach as “typical” of its behaviour across South Africa. He emphasized that while teachers struggle with overcrowded classrooms and unsafe environments, SADTU seems more interested in peripheral conflicts.

Mgungose highlighted various unaddressed issues within the education system, including teacher exploitation and ongoing safety concerns. He added that Pretoria High School, in particular, has been grappling with allegations of racism—another problem, he argued, that SADTU has chosen to overlook. “In this school, there are clear signs of racial abuse among students, yet SADTU remains silent on this front,” Mgungose remarked.

Beyond these current grievances, EUSA expressed frustration over SADTU’s inaction on a longstanding salary agreement. “Teachers are still awaiting salary adjustments promised in 2018, and yet SADTU is saying nothing about this delayed compensation,” said Mgungose. He argued that this failure to advocate for fair wages reflects a lack of commitment to teachers’ welfare.

As for their next steps, EUSA plans to escalate its engagement with the Gauteng Department of Education. Mgungose affirmed that the union will push for a thorough investigation into the racial abuse allegations at Pretoria High School, demanding accountability for the students affected. He stated that the union would organize protests outside the school and the department’s offices to urge a renewed inquiry, seeking “justice for the abused learners.”

In a closing statement, Mgungose urged SADTU to “stop wasting public platforms” and focus on the real issues impacting teachers and students, insisting that the time for diversions has passed.

Listen to the full interview on Your World Today with  Mufti Yusuf Moosagie and Sphiwe Mgungose here.