CIRCULAR : | 0019/2005 | EXPIRY DATE : | NONE |
TO: | CHIEF DIRECTORS, DIRECTORS, HEADS OF EDUCATIONAL INSTITUTIONS, CHAIRPERSONS OF GOVERNING BODIES AND COUNCILS OF EDUCATIONAL INSTITUTIONS, AND RECOGNISED EMPLOYEE UNIONS/PARTIES |
BRIEF SUMMARY: | Stipulations regarding the involvement of employees (educators and public service staff) in elections (local, provincial and national) |
SUBJECT: | INVOLVEMENT OF WCED EMPLOYEES (EDUCATORS AND PUBLIC SERVICE STAFF) IN ELECTIONS (LOCAL, PROVINCIAL AND NATIONAL) |
| 1. |
This circular replaces all previous circulars in the above regard. |
| 2. |
While the Western Cape Education Department (WCED) recognises the right of its employees to pursue political careers, in terms of our country's constitution it is also committed to ensuring learners' right to a secure and undisturbed learning environment. |
| 3. |
Educators are in a unique position as they can influence learners and parents. Should they stand as candidates in an election, they will be faced with a conflict of interests as on the one hand they must deliver education objectively and in a professional manner (free from political influences) and on the other hand they must promote the interests of the political party that they represent. |
| 4. |
Furthermore, nominated candidates are expected to campaign on behalf of the political party that they represent. This could take them out of the classroom, or keep them from their extra-curricular obligations, which would disrupt teaching during the election period and would not be in the best interests of learners (especially those in Grade 12) |
| 6. |
Heads of educational institutions and directors are requested to ensure that the contents of this circular are brought to the attention of all staff. Each person concerned must please be requested to sign the document as proof that he or she is familiar with its contents. |
SIGNED: R.B. SWARTZ
HEAD: EDUCATION
DATE: 2005:03:29
Meld asseblief verwysingsnommers in alle korrespondensie / Please quote reference numbers in all correspondence /
Nceda ubhale iimombolo zesalathisa kuyo yonke imbalelwano
Grand Central Towers, Laer-Parlementstraat, Privaatsak X9114, Kaapstad 8000
Grand Central Towers, Lower Parliament Street, Private Bag X9114, Cape Town 8000
WEB: http://wced.wcape.gov.za
INBELSENTRUM / CALL CENTRE
Indiensneming- en salarisnavrae / Employment and salary queries: 0861 92 33 22
Veilige Skole / Safe Schools: 0800 45 46 47
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