In many instances, there are growing perceptions and experiences of collusion, manipulation, and lack of transparency in the selection process.
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Dear Minister Siviwe Gwarube,
I hope this message finds you well. I am writing to respectfully raise a serious concern regarding the current promotion processes within the Department of Basic Education, particularly in relation to levels 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, and higher promotion posts.
It is widely observed that the promotion process is largely influenced and controlled at the school level by the superintendent of education management, the principal, and the school governing body. While these structures are intended to ensure fairness and accountability, in practice there appears to be significant room for bias, vested interests, and undue influence.
In many instances, there are growing perceptions and experiences of collusion, manipulation, and lack of transparency in the selection process. This has resulted in situations where candidates for promotional posts appear to be predetermined, leaving deserving and capable educators marginalised and overlooked.
This situation has a deeply negative impact on staff morale; and undermines the core values of fairness, professionalism, and integrity within the education system.
Ultimately, it is our pupils who suffer when the most suitable candidates are not appointed to leadership and teaching positions. In light of this, I respectfully propose that the department considers reviewing and reforming the current promotion process.
One possible intervention would be the establishment of independent selection panels comprising experienced, retired educationists.
These panels could conduct the selection process in a manner that is objective, transparent, and free from localised influence.
Furthermore, to strengthen the integrity of the process, such panels could be appointed confidentially, and only present themselves at the school on the day of the interviews.
This would help minimise the possibility of prior influence or manipulation. and ensure that all candidates are assessed fairly based on merit.
I believe that such reforms would go a long way in restoring trust in the promotion system, improving educator morale, and ultimately enhancing the quality of education delivered to our pupils.
I trust that you will give this matter your urgent consideration and take the necessary steps to ensure that the promotion processes within our education system are fair, transparent, and in the best interests of all stakeholders. Thank you for your time and attention.
A CONCERNED PARENT
Durban