Parents across KwaZulu-Natal are expressing growing concern as public schools in the province delay June examinations and cancel scheduled winter holiday camps due to a severe funding crisis. According to SABC News, the disruption stems from the provincial Department of Education’s failure to release full subsidy payments to schools.
Teachers’ unions — the South African Democratic Teachers Union (SADTU) and the National Teachers Union (NATU) — have downed tools, refusing to prepare or mark examination papers outside official work hours. They argue that expecting additional duties without pay is unjust, especially under current financial constraints.
SADTU’s provincial chairperson, Phumlani Duma, criticized the government for neglecting the education system, calling the situation a “collapse” of school operations. Many institutions are now unable to function effectively, lacking the resources to conduct exams or maintain academic activities.
Premier Thami Ntuli recently announced that R900 million has been sourced to settle the outstanding subsidies. However, as of reporting time, the funds have yet to reach the school accounts, leaving administrators and parents in limbo.
The continued delay threatens to impact thousands of learners’ academic progression and has sparked urgent calls for accountability and immediate intervention from the provincial authorities.
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