The Gauteng Department of Education has dismissed claims that it is avoiding accountability as concerns grow over a R58 million municipal debt owed by schools in the province.
During an interview, Gauteng Education spokesperson Steve Mabona refuted allegations that the department had neglected its financial obligations, insisting that all historical debts had been settled and that schools had been allocated funds to cover current expenses.
Historical Debt Settled, Says Department
Mabona clarified that the department had faced challenges in 2023, with schools accruing municipal debt between September and March. However, he stated that the outstanding amounts were paid in April, clearing all arrears up to that point.
“We paid what was outstanding from last year. We negotiated with municipalities, and there was an agreement that services would not be disconnected,” Mabona said.
He further explained that funds had been transferred to Section 21 schools (those with financial management autonomy) in June, enabling them to cover municipal bills from April onwards.
Ongoing Responsibility of Schools
When pressed on whether any debt remained, Mabona maintained that the department had fulfilled its obligations up to March and that schools were now responsible for settling subsequent bills using their allocated budgets.
“There is no historic debt that schools are expected to pay from last year. The only payments they need to make are for May, June, and the rest of the year—and we have given them the money to do so,” he asserted.
DA Calls for Policy Reversal
The Democratic Alliance (DA) has renewed its call for the department to reverse its policy requiring no-fee schools to cover their own utility bills, arguing that this places an unfair burden on under-resourced institutions. Mabona, however, defended the current system, stating that it was legislated and that only Section 20 schools (those without financial autonomy) received direct municipal payments from the department.
Concerns Over Service Disruptions
The issue of unpaid utility bills has raised fears of service disruptions, which could severely impact learning conditions. Without electricity or water, schools struggle to maintain lighting, sanitation, and educational technology.
Mabona acknowledged these concerns but assured that no schools were currently disconnected and that sufficient funds had been provided to prevent future cut-offs.
“We have resolved the challenge of delayed allocations, and no school will be disconnected in the near future,” he said.
Conclusion
While the department maintains that it has addressed the debt issue, questions remain over whether all schools—particularly those with financial management difficulties—will be able to meet their municipal obligations. As the debate continues, educators and learners hope for a lasting solution to avoid further disruptions in the academic year.
