Seatides parents demand answers over alleged financial mismanagement as school meeting remains unresolved

Parents at Seatides Combined School in KwaZulu-Natal are demanding a meeting with the school governing body to address allegations of financial misconduct, unpaid staff deductions, and misuse of school funds. The school board (SGB) has refused to comment, while the KwaZulu-Natal Department of Education has not responded as of publication.

The Concerned Parents Group claims that their repeated requests for a meeting have been ignored despite their concerns about the school's financial health and the potential impact on students.

The parents are particularly concerned about alleged overspending, an unexplained R9 million balance at the beginning of 2025, and claims that UIF contributions and PAYE deductions for school governing body (SGB)-employed teachers have not been paid for several years. Rajen Pillay, a local community activist, warned that the lack of transparency could lead to job losses and declining educational standards.

Pillay stated that parents have been seeking a meeting since September 2025 and again in March 2026, with a protest in June following their requests. The protest was followed by the suspension of the school principal, but parents have yet to receive a satisfactory response or a scheduled meeting. A parent reportedly started an online petition, garnering support from 109 parents who wanted the meeting and answers.

Despite the suspension of the principal, Pillay expressed concern that no meaningful progress has been communicated to parents. He questioned the purpose of certain fundraising initiatives and the construction of a hall, arguing that funds should be directed towards sports facilities, educational resources, and additional pupil support.

The parents have followed proper procedures in seeking an urgent meeting with the SGB and school management, but repeated delays have left them uncertain about when their concerns will be addressed.