Residents of Philippi, Cape Town, gathered outside Siyazakha Primary School on 26 November, protesting the unresolved vacancies in the school’s teaching staff. The community claims that six teaching positions have been vacant since 2020, leading to frustration over the lack of local candidates being hired. Protestors expressed disappointment that applicants from other areas, such as Gugulethu, were favored over Philippi residents.
In addition to concerns about employment, parents criticized the school’s financial management. One parent likened the school’s operations to that of a “spaza shop,” citing the monthly fee of R100 with no clarity on how the money is used. This dissatisfaction with accountability was a key point of contention during the protest.
The Western Cape Department of Education responded, confirming that the vacancies remain unfilled due to incomplete documentation. The department assured the public that it is actively assisting the school in resolving the issue.
Despite ongoing efforts to address the matter, the protest caused a disruption to school activities. This situation underscores the growing community demand for more transparent management and immediate action to fill the vacant positions.
