Parents protesting at Nkodibe Secondary School in Mtubatuba, northern KwaZulu-Natal, allege a senior provincial education official demanded R120,000 and three cattle in exchange for approving the appointment of the school’s top candidate for principal – Sthembiso Mthembu.
Disrupted Leadership and Allegations of Corruption
Mthembu, who served as acting principal in 2023 and 2024, reportedly did not pay the requested fee. Following his selection by the school governing body (SGB) in June 2024, the South African Democratic Teachers Union (Sadtu) lodged a grievance against the interview process, ultimately preventing his appointment.
The KwaZulu-Natal education department did not issue Mthembu an acting appointment letter for 2025, leaving the school without a principal. Parents, frustrated by the stalled process, protested for two weeks, from February 9 to February 23, and resolved to take further action in 2026 after repeated attempts to engage the department proved unsuccessful.
SGB member Kheyi Mlungwana stated that the department has now given them the go-ahead to re-advertise the principal position in the March bulletin. A teacher at the school reported a decline in the school’s 97% matric pass rate from 2024, attributing it to discipline issues stemming from the lack of permanent leadership.
The department’s spokesperson, Muzi Mhlambi, stated that the appointment process was stalled due to reported irregularities and that a stakeholder meeting was held to address the situation. He confirmed the post will be re-advertised to ensure transparency and fairness.
This case follows a recent incident where two men were sentenced to life in prison for a hit on another acting principal, Busani Khomo, at Sikhethuxolo High School, allegedly linked to the vacant principal position.
Frequently Asked Questions
What prompted the protests at Nkodibe Secondary School?
Parents protested because they believed the acting principal, Sthembiso Mthembu, was not appointed due to his refusal to pay a fee of R120,000 and provide three cattle to a senior provincial education official.
What action did Sadtu take regarding the principal appointment?
Sadtu lodged a grievance against the interview process shortly after Mthembu was selected by the SGB, which ultimately led to his non-appointment.
What is the current status of the principal appointment process?
The KwaZulu-Natal education department has agreed to re-advertise the principal post in the March bulletin, with the SGB administering the recruitment and selection process.
How can schools ensure fair and transparent leadership appointments to prioritize student success?
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