By Duncan Mnisi
Modimolle – MM Rakgwale, a teacher from Limpopo, has been awarded R50,000 in compensation after challenging an unfair appointment process.
The Education Labour Relations Council (ELRC) ruled that she was unjustly overlooked for a principal’s position at her school, despite being the most qualified candidate.
Rakgwale, who had applied for the principal role at Makhutjisha Secondary School, argued that the Limpopo Department of Education ignored her qualifications and experience during recruitment.
She had previously acted as principal and served as deputy principal, making her highly qualified for the role. However, she was not shortlisted despite meeting all requirements.
The ELRC found that her exclusion was unfair and unjustified.
The council noted that the department’s handling of the shortlisting process was flawed and that sidelining qualified candidates undermines trust in the education system.
The ruling further emphasized that such unfair treatment should serve as a warning for future appointments.
Despite her strong qualifications, Rakgwale was repeatedly overlooked. While she was shortlisted on several occasions, she was never selected for final interviews.
The department failed to provide clear reasons for her exclusion, which added to the unfairness.
“The prejudice suffered by Rakgwale could not be said to be trivial, given the nature of the position as well as the department’s unfair handling of the shortlisting process,” said Thapelo Mathekga, ELRC Commissioner.
The ELRC’s decision aims to promote transparency and fairness in leadership recruitment within schools.
As a result, the department was ordered to pay Rakgwale R50,000. The ruling also signaled that such unfair practices will not be tolerated in the future.
