Zero tolerance for corruption in teacher appointments – Steenkamp

Education minister Sanet Steenkamp has issued a stern warning to officials, saying the selling of teaching posts, favouritism or the manipulation of recruitment processes constitutes a criminal offence and will lead to dismissal and prosecution.

“There will be zero tolerance for corruption in appointments,” Steenkamp stressed this week.

Addressing staff on Wednesday, the minister said allegations circulating among unemployed teachers that posts are secured through payments or undue influence were “deeply troubling” and risked undermining public confidence in the education system.

She emphasised that public service is a privilege, not an entitlement, cautioning that unethical conduct, abuse of authority, poor treatment of colleagues or the public and failure to perform duties would not be tolerated.

Managers and boards who fail to act against misconduct, she warned, would be regarded as complicit through silence or inaction.

“The appointment of teachers must be transparent, timely and merit-based,” the minister warned, saying delays, unnecessary bureaucracy and corrupt practices harm learners, families and qualified graduates desperate for work.

She made it clear that any official found soliciting or accepting money, favours or influence in exchange for a teaching job would face serious consequences. “These practices, if proven, will lead to disciplinary action, dismissal and referral to law enforcement authorities."

Growing frustration

Steenkamp instructed regional education leadership to ensure that all teacher appointments are meticulously documented, auditable and conducted in line with public service regulations.

Regions were further directed to communicate appointment timelines clearly, act swiftly on complaints and escalate allegations without fear or favour.

Steenkamp's warning comes against the backdrop of growing frustration among unemployed qualified teachers, many of whom have repeatedly raised concerns about alleged favouritism and irregularities in recruitment processes at the regional level.

While no figures were disclosed, Steenkamp acknowledged the erosion of trust caused by such allegations.

Act professionally

The minister said the directive forms part of a broader push to restore professionalism, discipline and accountability across the education sector.

Steenkamp also reminded state-owned enterprises and subsidised institutions under the ministry that public funding is not guaranteed and must be justified through performance, transparent reporting and measurable outputs.

Calling for a culture shift from entitlement to service, she urged officials to reflect on whether their actions improve service delivery and add value to the education system.

“This ministry shapes the future of our nation,” Steenkamp said. “That responsibility demands integrity, urgency and unity of purpose.”