The Gauteng Department of Education (GDE) has confirmed that it is investigating allegations involving the principal of Shalimar Ridge Primary School following complaints raised by members of the community.
This comes after concerns were brought forward by parents regarding alleged governance and leadership issues at the school.
Among the allegations raised was a reported attempt to influence parentsโ votes in support of a new principal through alleged school discounts.
The matter has reportedly sparked tensions within the community, with a protest said to be planned at the school. The issue has also attracted political attention, with members of the uMkhonto weSizwe Party reportedly visiting the area to intervene in the matter.
In response to a media enquiry by Mapepeza, the GDE said officials were sent to the school after an allegation was levelled against the principal by an educator.
โThe Gauteng Department of Education can confirm that there was an allegation levelled against the principal by the educator at Shalimar Ridge Primary School. Consequently, the officials were dispatched to the said school to investigate the matter. Accordingly, the matter has been investigated, and the report is under consideration,โ the department said.
However, the department stated that it had not received formal complaints regarding broader leadership concerns at the school.
โIt must be noted that we have not received any complaints about the leadership issues at the said school,โ the department added.
The GDE said the investigation report is currently being reviewed and further processes may follow depending on the outcome.
Community members are expected to closely monitor developments as calls for transparency and accountability continue.
