As the class of 2025 continues their June examinations, several Phoenix schools have circulated postponement notices following a recent mandate by the South African Democratic Teachers’ Union (SADTU) to all its members. This mandate is in respect of an impasse between SADTU and the KZN Department of Education (KZNDOE).
Throughout the week, various school principals informed parents regarding the disruptions. On Monday, 9 June, Palmview Secondary principal announced that SADTU had called for the postponement of all examinations, as SADTU educators were heeding the call: “SADTU has prevented the distribution of the KZNDOE papers this morning. Examinations will resume once SADTU resolves its labour action. All learners will remain at school for the first session today. Those with early leave letters will be dismissed after the first session. Normal teaching and learning will take place today and the rest of the week. Syllabus coverage will continue to prevent loss of teaching time when examinations resume.”
Trenance Manor Secondary principal also issued a statement, saying learners were kept on the school premises for safety, and normal learning, revision, and teaching of the third-term syllabus would continue from Tuesday, 10 June.
“The resumption of the examinations will be communicated in due course. In the interim, it is imperative that learners continue diligently with their exam preparations,” said the school management.
Havenpark Secondary School, Stanmore Secondary School, and Northlen Primary School shared similar messages, encouraging learners to keep studying as examinations could commence at any moment.
SADTU KZN’s provincial secretary, Nomarashiya Caluza, said their meeting with the KZN Premier, Thamsanqa Ntuli, was progressive, creating a platform for SADTU to present the funding challenges confronting schools.
KZN Premier Thamsanqa Ntuli assured that, in collaboration with the Department of Finance, funds would be made available for the Department of Education to pay all outstanding allocations to schools. This payment process is expected to be concluded within two weeks.
“Teaching and learning remain a top priority of this administration. On behalf of the KZN Government, I extend our sincere apology to all learners, educators, and parents for the disruptions caused. We are committed to restoring stability and ensuring every child receives the education they deserve.”
Prior to their postponement on 9 June, the last paper written was Dramatic Arts during the first session.
The KZNDOE was approached for comment, however none was given at the time of print.
