MEC tackles internal disputes at Umkhumbane Secondary School
The KZN Department of Education has engaged with teachers and management of Umkhumbane Secondary School following internal disputes.
The Member of the Executive Council for Education in KwaZulu-Natal, Hon. Sipho Hlomuka MPL, YESTERDAY (June 3, 2026) convened a two-phased engagement at Umkhumbane Secondary School. He first met with the teachers, followed by a meeting with the School Governing Body (SGB), and other key stakeholders.
“The meetings dealt with the key issues raised by the parties, namely the installation of CCTV cameras at the school, the 22 teachers who are not reporting for duty, the suspension of the school principal, the suspension of SGB members, and financial management and governance.
“The purpose of the meetings was to listen to concerns, address these challenges, and reinforce the collective commitment to the long-term success and legacy of the school,” said Muzi Mahlambi, spokesperson for the KZN Department of Education.
Hlomuka strongly emphasised that the needs of the learners must be prioritised above all else. He MEC made it clear that learners at Umkhumbane cannot be made to bear the consequences of any internal disputes or challenges.
The MEC highlighted that the school had built a proud legacy of academic excellence over many years. “The school has consistently produced outstanding results and remains a beacon of hope for the community.”
Also read: Education department moves to calm school placement crisis
He stressed that the focus of all discussions must be on ensuring that the school continues to produce the outstanding academic results that have become its hallmark. The MEC added that all stakeholders have a duty to protect and strengthen this legacy.
Mahlambi added, “The parties engaged in good faith and there is agreement on solutions to most of the contested issues. The MEC has also committed to ensure that all allegations and counter-allegations will be investigated thoroughly by an independent body.”
The MEC and the department will next meet with the parents of learners at the school.
For more from Berea Mail, follow us on Facebook, X and Instagram. You can also check out our videos on our YouTube channel or follow us on TikTok.
Click to subscribe to our newsletter – here
