9 January 2025

KZN Education Department Criticized for Delayed Allocation of Resources

KwaZulu-Natal unions in the education sector have expressed concerns over delayed funding, despite assurances from the KZN Department of Education that it is on track with delivering 2025 Learning and Teaching Support Materials (LTSM) to schools.


Earlier this week, KZN Education MEC Sipho Hlomuka held a meeting with the department's top management to discuss LTSM delivery, the National School Nutrition Programme, human resources matters, and the readiness for the release of matric results. According to the department, almost 99% of textbooks have been delivered to schools across the province, along with 76% of the stationery for pupils in 4,174 schools. The delivery process is set to conclude by January 10.


The department also stated that deliveries to schools in areas with serious security concerns will be completed between January 12 and 17. Efforts are being made in collaboration with law enforcement agencies to ensure the safety of personnel and resources during this period. Additionally, the department is addressing norms and standards allocations to equip learning environments for quality education.


However, National Professional Teachers’ Organisation of South Africa (Naptosa) KZN CEO Thirona Moodley disputed the department’s claim of 99% delivery. Moodley expressed concerns over schools not receiving their norms and standards allocations for 2024, which would have helped sustain operations into 2025. She highlighted that schools are struggling to pay municipal bills and maintain operations, with principals unable to bear the financial burden. Moodley said there has been no indication of when the funds will be paid, leaving schools in a precarious situation.


Similarly, the Public Servants Association of South Africa (PSA) criticized the department for delays in LTSM delivery. According to Mlungisi Ndlovu, KZN PSA Manager, the incomplete allocation of resources jeopardizes schools’ readiness for the academic year. Ndlovu stressed the need for immediate corrective action to address these challenges and called for transparency regarding the department’s budget and reasons for the delays.


The PSA also condemned the half allocation of norms and standards to schools, stating that this undermines the provision of essential resources such as stationery and exacerbates educational inequalities. Ndlovu urged the MEC for Education to provide a comprehensive report on the budget allocation and steps to resolve the issues.