By Duncan Mnisi
Bushbuckridge, Mpumalanga — Tensions are mounting at Maviljan Primary School in the rural village of Maviljan after allegations surfaced that the school’s principal has been demanding bribes from assistant teachers employed there.
The accusations have ignited fears among staff and raised broader concerns about integrity and governance within the local education system.
Sources close to the situation reveal that the principal, whose identity is known to our publication but has not yet been publicly disclosed, allegedly called assistant teachers to her office individually and demanded R1,500 in exchange for the retention of their employment contracts.
According to reports, the principal purportedly justified her actions by claiming she had personally financed payments to the School Governing Body (SGB) panel to facilitate their appointments — an assertion that staff members strongly contest.
The assistant teachers assert that their appointments followed standard procedures, including meeting all necessary requirements and undergoing fair selection processes.
They expressed shock and frustration over the alleged extortion, emphasizing that they had no reason to suspect any irregularities in their hiring. Many rely on their salaries to support their families and feel betrayed by claims that their livelihoods are threatened unless they pay bribes.
Speaking anonymously to Timeless News, an assistant teacher said, “We work hard every day to provide for our families. The idea that the principal is trying to take away our jobs through threats and extortion is deeply disturbing. We followed all proper procedures to get here.”
The situation has reportedly worsened due to fears of retaliation. Several staff members are said to have been advised against reporting the matter to authorities at the Ngwaritsane circuit office, as they believe the principal has influential allies within the local education administration.
This perceived influence has created an atmosphere of intimidation, leaving staff uncertain about their futures and the safety of their employment.
As of now, no official statement has been issued by the Mpumalanga Department of Education regarding these allegations.
Education authorities have acknowledged receiving reports but have refrained from commenting publicly until a thorough investigation is conducted.
The situation at Maviljan Primary School underscores ongoing challenges related to governance and accountability in rural schools.
Advocates for transparent and fair employment practices are calling for an independent inquiry to ensure that staff rights are protected and that such allegations are thoroughly examined.
Parents and community members have expressed concern over the reported misconduct, emphasizing the importance of integrity in local schools.
“Our children deserve a safe learning environment, and teachers should be able to work without fear of intimidation,” said a concerned parent.
The Department of Education has pledged to investigate the allegations and ensure appropriate action is taken if the claims are substantiated. Meanwhile, staff at Maviljan Primary School continue to work under a cloud of uncertainty, awaiting clarity and justice.
This development highlights the critical need for accountability within educational institutions to uphold ethical standards and protect the rights of educators. As investigations unfold, the community remains hopeful for a resolution that restores trust and integrity to their local school.
