The Gauteng Department of Education (GDE) has welcomed the sentencing on November 4 of a former finance officer at Laerskool Akasia, following her conviction on June 9.

Lorraine Scheepers (60) was found guilty of fraud and theft after an extensive investigation by the Department’s Anti-Corruption Unit.

GDE spokesperson Steve Mabona said, “She was sentenced to three years’ imprisonment, wholly suspended for five years, and ordered to repay R210 000 to the school on November 4.”

According to Mabona, the department’s internal investigation uncovered that the former clerk had embezzled about R846 000 from the school between 2019 and 2021, manipulating bank statements to hide the theft.

“The fraudulent scheme came to light after financial discrepancies were identified in the school’s accounts, prompting an in-depth probe by the Anti-Corruption Unit.”

He has encouraged schools to work closely with district offices and promptly report any suspicious financial activities to prevent similar incidents in the future.

“We remain steadfast in rooting out corruption and ensuring that every cent allocated to schools is used to improve the quality of education for Gauteng learners.”

Gauteng Education MEC Matome Chiloane praised the unit for its decisive action in bringing the offender to justice, reaffirming the department’s firm stance against corruption and financial misconduct within schools.

“The GDE commends its Anti-Corruption Unit for its diligent work in ensuring accountability and reiterates its zero-tolerance stance on corruption and financial misconduct within schools.

“The department urges all school communities to report any suspected irregularities through official GDE channels,” said Chiloane.

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