A recent Corruption Watch (CW) survey has revealed that corruption in schools is getting worse but only a few have reported their experiences of corruption.

CW’s executive director David Lewis said the survey was conducted to gain more insight into corruption in schools after the civil society organisation received a high inflow of corruption reports.

“Over 300 cases of corruption in schools have been reported to CW via its website, SMS hotline, and telephone since January this year,” said Lewis.

The CW conducted its study in August via social network Mxit. The survey drew its findings from a sample of 3 284 respondents between the ages of 13 and 34.

Almost half of participants were pupils in schools and further education and training (FET) colleges.

Respondents included parents, family members, teachers and school governing body members.

Over half of the respondents (53%) believed corruption in schools was getting worse. However almost six in ten respondents who had experienced corruption did not report it.

“Those who reported corruption did so to a school principal or parent. Members of the school governing body were more likely to report corruption to official anti-corruption institutions, such as the presidential hotline or the education department,” said Lewis.

The study lists misuse of school money or property as the most common form of school corruption, followed by corruption in grading and marking, and nepotism in the appointment of staff.

Seven out of ten respondents claimed school principals were responsible for misusing money or property. While six out of ten said teachers were responsible for soliciting favours in

exchange for better marks. Teachers were also regarded as responsible for selling exam and test papers to pupils.

Even though most respondents claimed they did not report corruption, they suggested regular anti-corruption meetings and anti-corruption groups as ways to fight corruption in schools.

“We wish to encourage parents to get more involved in the running of schools and ensure that leaders in schools are held accountable. The long term consequences of corruption in schools are very disturbing,” said Lewis.

Members of the public who wish to report corruption in schools can call 0800 023 456.