Dear Portfolio Committee on Basic Education,

My name is Mlungisi Radebe. I am making this communication in the capacity of a former school governing boy chairperson at Thabisile primary school. Under my supervision as a governor, I came across many different challenges from education officials. I raised those concerns with relevant offices from the district manager to the MEC office. I had sent all my grievances to Gauteng legislation office through Mr Dos Santo, october 2024. My last follow up was on 20 march 2025. He has been silent.

All the offices never responded to my grievances. The silence is alarming. The reason I use the word alarming is because protection amongst department officials has been a commodity in SA. Different departments have a tendency of being silent once they try to protect unethical behavior of individuals.
My grievances cover the following;
1. unethical behaviour of DBE individuals.
2. unfair labour practices
3. mismanagement of funds.
4. defamation of character.
5. incorrect procedures followed.
6. protectionism at the expense of our kids.

My last communication was with Zanele Mokotedi. She decided to be silent. I believe if one lodge a grievance they are entitled to be giving feedback on the issues. The head office requested a written report from the newly elected principal. He advised us (parents) to wait for the head office's response, which was in March 2025.

I was running an extra class program from 2021 at the same school. This year the SGB refused to lease out the premises to my program. according to South African Schools i Act, if i am not happy with the outcome. I can escalate the matter to the office of the HOD. I have not received the response up to date.

Grievances and extra classes are two different issues; however, I have not received any feedback. I find the HOD and legislation offices very incompetent. I allege that there's a lot of protectionism in these offices. i believe this is not the way department officials should conduct themselves.

Please assist in solving the issues amicably. I am more than welcome for an invitation for any clarity and supporting documents.

Sincerely

Mr M Radebe