A 20-strong group of concerned Seatides Combined School parents demanded transparency around school finances during a peaceful protest last Friday.

Led by former school governing body (SGB) co-opted member Kem Barron, the group carried placards alleging mismanagement of the school’s reserve funds, as well as poor governance processes and communication. A memorandum of demands was delivered to a school official.

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Barron, whose child attends Seatides, said parents have repeatedly raised concerns about the reserve funds, which are separate from those raised after the 2024 tornado.

“We believe these concerns warrant clear answers and meaningful engagement with parents and the community,” said Barron.

“The purpose of this demonstration is not to disrupt teaching and learning, but to exercise our constitutional right to peaceful assembly and to advocate for greater transparency and accountability in matters affecting our children’s education and the management of school resources.”

Demands in the memorandum include full disclosure of the school’s finances and major expenditure decisions, stronger accountability from leadership structures and an independent review of governance. It was addressed to the Minister of Basic Education, the district director, acting principal RG Naidoo and SGB chairperson Kerusha Chetty.

The protesting group requested a written response within seven working days and called for an emergency special general meeting on June 20. In response, the SGB issued a statement to staff, pupils and parents confirming that the allegations have been referred to authorities and that a forensic audit by the KwaZulu-Natal Department of Education (DOE) is underway.

“Attempts to mobilise protest action while a formal process is underway serve no constructive purpose,” the statement read.

The governing body added that it welcomes the audit and will communicate further once findings are finalised.

“Any claims suggesting that the school is “broke” or financially incapable of fulfilling its obligations are false and misleading,” it said.

“The school continues to function effectively and remains committed to providing quality education and maintaining its facilities for the benefit of all learners.”

The DOE said they are aware of the matter and investigating.