The Department of Education has found itself embroiled in controversy as assistant teachers employed under the Gauteng Youth Brigade (GYB) staged a protest outside its headquarters. The assistant teachers were part of a group of youths employed by the provincial government to assist permanent teachers in Gauteng schools. However, despite promises made by Premier Panyaza Lesufi earlier in the year that their contracts would be extended to 2025, 32,000 teaching assistants were left unemployed on July 31.
The protesters, led by spokesperson Mamello Segale, submitted memorandums requesting an extension of their contracts, but received unsatisfactory responses from government officials. Segale expressed frustration and confusion, claiming that promises of permanent positions were made during negotiations with the premier’s office. The protesters felt betrayed and vulnerable, as they believed they were misled by government officials who had assured them of job security.
The situation escalated when the protesters threatened to camp outside the Department of Education offices until they were hired permanently. The tension reached a breaking point when police fired rubber bullets, tear gas, and water cannons into the crowd to disperse them. The use of force was condemned by the MK Youth League Acting Secretary General, Sithembile Nkosi, who criticized the government for its violent crackdown on peaceful protesters.
In response to the protests, the Gauteng Department of Education issued a statement reaffirming that the contracts offered to the assistant teachers were always intended to be short-term and rotational. The department refuted claims of promises of permanent positions and stated that all participants were aware of the temporary nature of the position. Spokesperson Steve Mabona clarified that the contracts were only extended until July 2024 and were not meant to be permanent employment opportunities.
Protester Gugu Thwala recounted the events leading up to the use of force by the police, claiming that they were shot at without warning or provocation. The protesters had peacefully blockaded an entrance to the headquarters with stones, but were met with water cannons and tear gas once the department’s workers were evacuated. The use of force by the police further fueled the anger and frustration of the protesters, who felt marginalized and ignored by the government.
The situation remains tense as the assistant teachers continue to demand answers and solutions from government officials. The protests highlight the challenges faced by temporary workers in the education sector and raise questions about the government’s commitment to youth employment initiatives. As the controversy unfolds, it is crucial for all parties involved to engage in constructive dialogue and work towards a resolution that addresses the concerns of the assistant teachers and ensures their future employment prospects.