Computer academy down the drain?
A ONCE multimillion rand local company, with approximately 200 employees and thousands of students, seems destined for bankruptcy and closure amidst allegations of massive mismanagement, fraud and corruption.
Avuxeni Computer Academy, a computer training company based in Tzaneen but with many branches throughout the country, allegedly owes millions more than what it currently earns or can possibly generate.
A senior staff member told the HERALD this week that many staff members receive only part or, in some cases, no salary at all.
The company’s problems seemingly started in 2012 when the then owner, Riaan van Brakel, died in a controversial helicopter crash midway between Tzaneen and Polokwane. Alleged in-fighting over control of his estate and the business apparently started straight away and the company’s decline was imminent.
According to a reliable source the company owes the Receiver of Revenue millions.
One landlord alleges that rental arrears also amount to large amounts and commitments to pay are not adhered to.
Allegations that the company had closed down surfaced this week. However, it was denied by a certain staff member.
Currently students have already registered and paid fees to start tuition in 2016.
In recent years the company was run by Van Brakel’s widow, Renet, who has since remarried and is now Whelan.
Efforts by the HERALD to get official comments or documents have been unsuccessful thus far, but further investigations will follow.
Anybody with information can contact bertus@herald.co.za.
