GDE WELCOMES PUBLIC PROTECTOR REPORT

8 July 2024

The Gauteng Department of Education (GDE) welcomes the Mayibuye Formal Report of the Public Protector, dated 28 June 2024, which investigated allegations of improper conduct by functionaries of the Gauteng Department of Infrastructure Development (GDID) and the Gauteng Department of Education (GDE) concerning the construction of Mayibuye Primary School.

This report, issued under Section 182(1)(b) of the Constitution and Section 8(1) of the Public Protector Act, scrutinises whether the GDID and GDE adhered to legal prescripts and procedures during the construction of Mayibuye Primary School and whether their actions constituted maladministration and undue delay.

The investigation found a lack of procedural integrity in the procurement and supply chain management procedures used in building the school. Additionally, the report alleges that a critical wetland study was not conducted before construction began, suggesting further improper conduct and maladministration.

The GDE acknowledges the findings of this report and is committed to implementing the recommended remedial actions.

Such implementation includes ensuring continuous compliance and strict monitoring mechanisms of the Project Plan, which was already provided to the Public Protector on 14 June 2024, to ensure that the school is fully operational in line with the efficient and economic management of the working capital in terms of S 38(1)(c)(iii) of the PFMA.

Statement issued by Steve Mabone, Gauteng Department of Education, 8 July 2024